SARATOGA – 8/27/2021
RACE 1: 10-4-8-3
#10 OPEN TIL MIDNIGHT ran a big race on debut, breaking poorly then rallying late to save the show dough. He should improve with that effort behind him, and the addition of blinkers will likely sharpen him up coming out of the starting gate.
RACE 2: 3-6-2
With the scratch of #1 MISS ALACRITY, the likeliest winner clearly becomes #3 NOVEMBER REIN. She sat comfortably off a pacesetter last time out before pulling clear late. She just might end up needing some time on her own in this field.
RACE 3: 4-2-1-5
The late run made by #4 SANDRO THE GREAT in his last start may look minor on paper, but it was actually very strong given the pace in that affair. He comes back third off a lengthy layoff today and will have to deal with another moderate pace. But, his last effort is quite encouraging.
RACE 4: 6-5-8-1
#6 BOURBON’S HOPE was a game debut winner for a barn whose runners generally improve with experience. This son of Exaggerator was a juicy 9/2 on debut and figures to offer value here in a competitive affair that’s loaded with speed. That plays into the hands of off the pace specialist Joel Rosario.
RACE 5: 2-7-3-6
There’s little to nothing interesting among the experienced runners here, so #2 SINFULLY SWEET is the one to beat. She is by 15% debut sire Twirling Candy, and is out of a dam who has dropped four turf winners. The only real negative is the tricky rail post.
RACE 6: 1A-9-10-7
In a skull-busting event, #1A CHASING CARA is interesting given the improvement she showed on the surface switch last time out. Her low percentage trainer will drive many in other directions, and this filly has the speed to stay within range from the outset.
RACE 7: 5-9-3-2
The rapid improvement of late from #5 A BIT O’IRISH SASS is significant, and she looks to have no problem getting 9 panels. There’s other speed in here, but she is quick enough to get command if jockey Luis Saez so chooses. He has pressed all the right buttons at this meet.
RACE 8: 2-6-8-1
Pace makes the race and #2 RINALDI is clearly the one to catch as he bids for two straight victories in this affair. He was an impressive open company winner last time out and should have little trouble procuring a comfortable early edge. Catch him for the money!
RACE 9: 8-5-2-7
#8 OUR MAN MIKE was never in a comfortable spot last time out lagging behind a moderate pace before launching a wide far turn move. That is a tough assignment going 9 panels here, and he figures to benefit from a projected fast pace today. The value to be had in the race comes from this son of Street Boss.
RACE 10: 3-10-4-8
The return to NY bred company for #3 MYHARTBLONGSTODADY is significant. She was given no chance by an outrageously passive ride against G3 company last time out and never fired. Her best NY bred races have come when she’s shown speed, so look for her to be forwardly placed today.
RACE 11: 5-8-9-1
#5 TACKLE looks a bit too good for his rivals in this field as he returns off a layoff for a new barn. When we last saw this son of Flatter he was a game 2nd from off the pace last November and is now fresh for Mike Maker. This barn has had a banner meet and will have a heavy favorite in this colt.
