By Dave Brower, Meadowlands Handicapper — Early Double Analysis — September 17, 2022
Race 1
1 NEVER MIND N – Yes, he burned a bit of betting cash over at Pocono, but it was a big step up in class. That was only second start for Team Bongiorno, this week’s Driver, AND Trainer of the Week. Look for a big bounce back tonight.
2 ANDOVER CONTESSA – I usually like to take a good, long look at any Huff trainees that show up here. This one comes down from Monti off a few wins. Is this a comparable class? I’ll give you a maybe on that. Must prove it on big track.
3 NANCY BAR – This guy’s in from Philly for Tommy Haughton, who has a limited stable nowadays. The recent form is good, so why not take a shot here? He keeps Jack P in the bike and I see a stalking style, so this is a good post.
4 WORTHY OF HONOR – First start here was just so-so, so I will keep this guy on the longshot list until I see more.
5 GRACELYN HANOVER – Wow, what a tough call this is! Is she going to behave or not? Because she is clearly faster than these when on her best game. But, after watching her all season, I consider it a big risk, IF price is low. Your call?
6 SHINKANSEN – We know his game and Smitty did a nice job of getting to the front from that post. The splits were still pretty hot and he did tire a touch at the end. But, it’s also another class drop. He is a threat to go all the way.
7 RIVER OTTER – Went on a nice roll for his barn a month ago. We can give him a pass for the Pocono disaster. The effort back here wasn’t bad, and against better. He’s a fit, but he will have to get into the race from this post for JC.
8 NYLANDER – I wanted him to be my “sneaky” price play tonight, but probably not from this post. I thought he had some traffic issues last week and some trot left in the tank. But, this does look like a real tough spot in pp8. CC’s pick.
DRIVER CHOICES:
Corey Callahan 8 over 7
Top Contenders 7-1-3-6
Race 2
1 BETTERROCK – Not sure what was up at Yonkers last time, with that 4-5 off odds. Really? Made no big moves either. So, he skips the Yonkers journey and tries the big track again. I really don’t know what to expect. It is a drop. Maybe.
2 SONNY WEAVER N – He’s also dropping a tick, like a few of these. I can’t remember if I’ve guessed right on him before, but he does fit this field. Might even offer a fair price. IF that’s the case, then toss onto the ticket.
3 ROCKIN THE ACES – Can you get a more honest racehorse than this? Unfortunately, sometimes he just gets too high in class. It’s been that way for a while. This is first time at a more realistic level. He’s a perfect fit in here. Usable.
4 KOOTENAY SANTANNA – Clearly the “wild card” in here. Had a decent qualifier in first go-around for Burke Brigade. They even listed Corey, who’s been hard to beat on these Saturday’s lately. That’s very positive intent. Take long look.
5 HICKFROMFRENCHLICK – I’m hoping he finds some top gears soon. He was too good of a horse a few years ago. It takes time to work your way down the class ladder, and he was speed-tightened last time. Should be ready to roll.
6 MY PAL JOE – We haven’t seen Joe here in a while, but no doubt he loves the track here too! They took him on the road for a major stakes try and he came up a tad short. Price won’t be too big, though. And, he’s just 1-14 this year.
7 HEZA REAL DIAMOND – We missed the boat when he dropped and popped two back. But, once he starts rising the class ladder, things get a lot tougher. Just like this post. That makes him a pass for me.
DRIVER CHOICES: None
Top Contenders 4-5-3-6
