As Sam Cooke once sang, “Change Is Gonna’ Come,” in today Tampa turf finale is being played out: Will it be a barn change; a barn-switch layoff returnee, or a first-time starter?
The firster hails from the Christophe Clement barn, replate with sharp blowout and the presence of white hot, and turf ace, Samy Camacho; early line favorite Plaisante (5-2).
The barn change is a sorta’ barn switch, as Point Well Taken (3-1) shifts from the Shug barn to the Reeve McGaughey shedrow. He’s had many chance but the experience and shorter 5-furlong trip helps.
But we’re gambling that Gerald Bennett will have Talk Much (7-2) set for best in her first start for the Tampa powerhouse as she returns from a 162-day layup.
The filly’s lone start came on this course, at this trip, and she showed blazing 21-flat speed before having to settle for place. It was 6 lengths back to the third finisher. Check out Tampa Bay Downs, JUN 30, Race 5.
Bennett is a man of many talents, one of which is having them set in returns from a layup. Her kind of speed and course familiarity are huge edges given today’s dynamics.
Veteran Jose Ferrer still gets ‘er done, especially on speedy lawn types.
We’re taking Talk Much to win at 3-1 or greater, and key-boxing exactas with her rivals above.
