By James Witherite Meadowlands Early Double November 17, 2023
Race 1
1 MV OK PALACIO BR Extreme post relief can help him realize better results. He didn’t lack late in his last few tries, note.
2 IN NEVADA N He was even off the shelf in his first start in two months. Expect better coming right back; mind value.
3 KNOX THE FOX Good gains from this guy from off the pace a fortnight ago! Post relief makes them count for more.
4 HURRIKANE IRONHEAD He’s won 2 of 3, both at Freehold and both via different trips. Needs more raw speed, simply put.
5 ROYAL COURTIER This is a step up from $5k claimers at Monti. He’s been a mixed bag there and overmatched here.
6 STONE COLD SAVAGE He dug deep to win four back at Freehold, and he paced 1:53.3 here on 10/28. Gains Verruso, too.
7 ALL ABOUT RUSTY Another $5k claimer at Monti. This one invaded 2 weeks ago and passed tired foes for an even fifth.
8 PAPRIKE BLUE CHIP Chased for second from a handy pocket 4 back; pressed and tired most recently. Credit work done.
9 JUST A ROCKET MAN Wide draw makes for a tough task on arrival from Freehold. Even finishes leave him trip-dependent.
10 SWEET MOVES She gains Joe Lee, but this is a step up on arrival from Freehold made more daunting by post 10.
Top Contenders: 6-1-8-3
Driver Choice: Newton “Yogi” Sheridan: #9 over #10
Race 2
1 PRINCE MCARDLE N Two-move winner at Freehold last out steps back up. Pole should keep him handy; can contend.
2 TEXAS MIKI Class and post relief can both serve to help this guy after he toiled chasing a fast pace last out.
3 PACK YOUR BAGS Freehold invader moves laterally after weakening on debut for Gulotta. Wait for clear improvement.
4 I’M TALKIN HUNGRY Consistent presser-stalker took 4 straight minors in N2L fields at Philly. Form carries on step down.
5 SEE YOU FRIDAY He’s back in for the optional tag after sustaining pressure for 3f last week. Clearly on the improve!
6 MASK ON MASK OFF Watson trainee’s hit a cold snap; breaks in last two MADCs cost him all chance. Others are sharper.
7 MAGRITTE Step down from $15k types should yield better staying power from the 32-time winner. Minor option.
8 I’M SPONGE WORTHY Wide draw kept him out of contention last week despite an even finish. Similar situation awaits here.
9 KING OF ACES He brushed to victory two back before stalking evenly last out. Slight bump up; wide draw hinders.
10 SNAP CALL Only as good as fifth in his last five, and he’s back in with similar off an even cover trip. Tough task.
Top Contenders: 5-4-1-7
Driver Choice: None
