Tag Archives: Javier Castellano

BetPTC.com Graded Stakes Preview – Dec. 28

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BetPTC.com / Weekend Stakes Preview

by: Ed Meyer

Santa Anita

Race #6 – The G1 American Oaks – 1 1/4 on turf – 4:30 pm EDT

BetPTC.com Selections / #5 – Lady Prancealot / #7 – Giza Goddess / #3 – Mucho Unusual

#5 Lady Prancealot comes from the Richard Baltas barn and is 5 for 6 ITM at SA. This daughter of Sir Prancealot (IRE) is bred to enjoy the turf and has Jersey Joe Bravo in the irons. She’s a long range closer who can come calling from the back of the pack. She fires fresh off a layoff and has a solid work tab coming in. #7 Giza Goddess is a daughter of Cairo Prince for John Sheriffs and sports good early speed. This is her 3rd off the layoff move and is 2 for 2 ITM at SA. Victor Espinoza gets the nod and look for her to be early paced from the break. #3 Mucho Unusual 

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Race #7 – The G1 La Brea – 7f – 5:00 PM EDT

BetPTC.com Selections / #1 – First Star / #5 – Bellafina / #6 – Bell’s the One

#1 First Star is a daughter of First Dude for trainer Ron Ellis. She is 3 for 3 ITM lifetime and has two straight bullet works from her two month vacation. Drayden Van Dyke in the saddle and she is a perfect stalker who draws the rail slot. #5 Bellafina is a daughter of Quality Road with Flavien Prat in the irons. She’s been away for 56 days and exits the BC F&M Sprint off a closing effort coming up a bit short of the win. Her last couple works show promise and Prat wins 23% with his sprint mounts. #6 Bell’s the One is a stout closer from the Neil Pessin barn with Javier Castellano in the irons. She is 3 for 3 ITM going the distance and Castellano wins 23% with his sprint runners.

Race #9 – The G1 Malibu – 7f – 6:00 pm EDT

BetPTC.com Selection / #5 – Omaha Beach / #3 – Manny Wah / #2 – Complexity

#5 Omaha Beach comes from the barn of Richard Madella with Mike Smith in the saddle. This son of War Front was a beaten 2nd in the BC Dirt Mile and is 4 for 4 ITM at SA. Three straight bullets and the ability to fire fresh is a great gift for this son of War Front. #3 Manny Wah is 2nd off the layoff for Baffert barn with Channing Hill retaining the mount. He ships in from Mahoning Valley winning 30% on the move. He’s a closer and stretches out from 6f to 7 panels. #2 Complexity is a speedy sort from the Chad Brown barn. He is 2nd off the layoff and the barn wins 24% on this move. Javier Castellano in the driver’s seat. His last win may be a great way to end the year and kick off 2020.

BetPTC.com Graded Stakes Preview – Dec. 7

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BetPTC.com Selections / Weekend Stakes Preview

By: Ed Meyer

Aqueduct Race #6 – The G3 Go for Wand – 1 mile – 2:09 pm EDT

BetPTC.com Selections / #3- Spiced Perfection / #6 – Our Super Nova / #4 – Another Broad

#3 Spiced Perfection comes in 3rd off the layoff exiting the Breeders’ Cup Sprint. She takes a huge drop in class, and go back two races where she won the G2 TCA at Kee as she’ll be rolling late for the Peter Miller barn with Javier Castellano in the irons. They are winning 43% as a team and the 3rd off move yields a 23% win clip. #6 Our Super Nova is a New York bred who loves the oval going 3 for 6 ITM at AQU. She is 6 for 6 ITM at the distance and owns a red hot work going 4f in 47.1. Junior Alvarado has the call for Charlton Baker. #4 Another Broad is a daughter of Include for Todd Pletcher and Eric Cancel gets the nod. 3rd off the layoff gets a 22% win clip and 2 for 2 ITM at AQU is promising. She’ll come calling late in the lane and the cutback in distance may have her moving quickly.

Race #8 – The G2 Demoisel – 1 1/8 – 3:13 pm EDT

BetPTC.com Selections / #5 – Alandra / #10 – Daphne Moon / #12 – Lake Avenue

#5 Alandra is a daughter of Blame for Shug McGaughey. She was a beaten favorite at KEE last out in the G1 Alcibiades and has been off for two months. She should be forwardly placed under Joel Rosario and they score 33% as a team. The rider has been hot the past week going 8 for 12 ITM. #10 Daphne Moon is a daughter of Cairo Prince for Jeremiah Engelhardt with Jose Ortiz in the saddle. She stumbled at the break in the G1 Frizette and still come on to finish 5th. She drops down in class and this closer will come rolling late under Ortiz who wins 23% with routes. #12 Lake Avenue is a daughter of Tapit and is bred to get the distance. Bill Mott is the trainer with Junior Alvarado in the irons. A tactical runner who should stalk just off the leaders. Her work at Belmont is promising and Alvarado wins 20% with early type runners.

Race #9 – The G-2 Remsen – 1 1/8 – 3:43 pm EDT

BetPTC.com Selections / #1 – Chase Tracker / #4 – Ajaaweed / #8 – Alpha Sixty Six

#1 Chase Tracker is a son of Verrazano for Todd Pletcher with Javier Castellano in the saddle. This is his 3rd off effort and exits the G3 Nashua going 5 wide while closing nicely. 2nd time going a route race yields a 28% win clip for the barn. #4 Ajaaweed is a son of Curlin for Kiaran McLaughlin with Joel Rosario in the irons. He’s been off two months exiting the G1 Breeders’ Futurity at KEE and was caught five wide, He’ll be running late dropping in class with a solid morning work. #8 Alpha Sixty Six comes in for the Pletcher barn and takes off the blinkers where they win 22%. John Velasquez in the driver’s seat and this closer comes off a 2 month layoff and may enjoy the equipment change. Johnny V wins 28% with route races and drops down the class ladder. This son of Liam’s Map can pick up the leaders late in the lane and JV wins 20% with closers.

BetPTC.com Graded Stakes Preview – Nov. 23

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BetPTC.com / Weekend Stakes Preview

by: Ed Meyer

Aqueduct

Race #9 – The G3 Red Smith – 1 3/8 on the turf – 3:47 pm EDT

BetPTC.com Selections / #3 – Nakamura / #7 – Sadler’s Joy / #4 – Marzo

#3 Nakamura is a son of Animal Kingdom for trainer Graham Motion. Jose Ortiz has the call and he wins 19% of his turf mounts. He came flying in the G3 Sycamore at Kee and was forced to take up and steady. A clear trip has him winner’s circle bound. #7 Sadler’s Joy is a son of Kitten’s Joy who has been off for 49 days for the Tom Albertrani barn with Javier Castellano in the irons. He was a beaten chalk last out and the barn comes back to score 20%. Add in a big drop in class and this closer will come calling late in the lane. #4 Marzo comes from the Mike Maker barn with Irad Ortiz in the saddle. He was the upset winner of the G3 Sycamore and has tactical speed with a 7 for 8 ITM turf record.

Delta Downs

Race #8 – The Jean Lafitte – 1 mile – 9:11 pm EDT

BetPTC.com Selections / #2 – Jack the Umpire / #1 – Sir Winsalot / #5 – X Clown

#2 Jack the Umpire is a son of Bodemeister who is 1 for 1 over the Delta strip. Tommy Pompell in the irons and he is a perfect stalker going a route of ground today. He should be forwardly placed as he attempts to give them the slip down the backside. #1 Sir Winsalot comes in for the Ken McPeek barn off a win at Kee. He draws the rail under Gerard Melancon and sports a sharp work to prepare. He’s been routing and the distance should be no problem. Steps up in class and since moving from the turf he looked like a new runner. #5 X Clown makes his 2nd off the layoff for this son of Jimmy Creed. The LA bred should get an up close stalking trip waiting to pounce under Tyler Woodley.

Del Mar

Race #8 – The G3 Native Diver – 1 1/8 – 7:00 pm EDT

BetPTC.com Selections / #6 – Two Thirty Five / #4 – Roadster / #2 – Midcourt

#6 Two Thirty Five comes from the Richard Baltas barn with Abel Cedillo in the saddle. This son of Stay Thirsty always comes running and the added distance may help his cause. 2nd time off of the layoff and is 4 for 7 ITM at DM. He has faced some tough runners in the past and comes in fresh with a solid prep. #4 Roadster is a son of Quality Road for Bob Baffert. He’s going from a sprint to a route where Baffert wins 28% and comes in with the perfect prep for longer distance and a softer field. He looks the one to beat, but I’m using underneath for value. #2 Midcourt is a son of Midnight Lute seeking his fourth win. He does take a major step in class but trainer John Sheriffs knows how to bring them ready. Look for a solid closing effort under Victor Espinoza.

BetPTC.com Weekend Stakes Preview – Nov. 16

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BetPTC.com / Weekend Stakes Preview

by: Ed Meyer

Aqueduct

Race #8 – The Key Cents – 6f – 3:20 pm EDT

BetPTC.com Selections / #3 – Time Limit / #7 – Big Q / #2 – Playtone

#3 Time Limit is a daughter of Bustin Stones for trainer Mike Maker with Javier Castellano in the irons. They make the turf to dirt move and drop from graded company. She should dictate the pace under Castellano and he scores 24% with early runners. #7 Big Q is a daughter of Big Brown for the Gary Gullo barn. Jose Lezcano gets the nod and she’s been off for two months since Saratoga. She gets 2nd time Lasix and has regular works at Belmont. She should be in top form. #2 Playtone comes from the George Weaver barn with Manny Franco aboard. 3rd off the shelf and the barn scores 20% with two year old runners. This daughter of Tonalist is taking a step up in class and should be ready.

Churchill Downs

Race #10 – The G-3 River City – 1 1/8 on the turf – 5:36 pm EDT

BetPTC.com Selections / #4 – Mr. Understood / #3 – Blue Sky Kowboy / #2 – Emmaus

#4 Mr. Understood is a son of Archarcharch for the Brad Cox barn who is winning 26% at the meet. Florent Geroux is back in action and they have been on the shelf for 48 days. They are seeking a repeat in this stake and are 5 for 5 ITM over the course. He comes in freshened and beaten chalk at Remington last out. Geroux will come rolling late in the final furlong. #3 Blue Sky Kowboy is a son of Kodiak Kowboy for the Michelle Boyce barn. Sophie Doyle gets the call and she’ll have this gelding flying late in the race. He’s 11 for 15 ITM on turf and exits a stake win at Hawthorne. #2 Emmaus hails from the Conor Murphy barn with Channing Hill in the saddle. This is his 3rd off the layoff and sitting on a huge effort. He’ll come calling late in the race and will need a solid pace to be a factor. Murphy wins 20% off a last race win.

Del Mar

Race  #8 – The G-3 Bob Hope  7f – 7:00 pm EDT

BetPTC.com Selections / #3- Thousand Words / #6 – Strongconstitution / #5 – High Velocity

#3 Thousand Words is a son of Pioneer of the Nile for Bob Baffert with Flavien Prat in the saddle. He closed fast to win his opener and added distance should be welcome. Prat wins 23% with sprinters and Baffet wins 32% with his babies. #6 Strongconstitution comes from the barn of Doug O’Neill with Abel Cedillo in the irons. 2nd start off the layoff and owns a bullet work to prepare. This son of Constitution has plenty of speed and Cedillo wins 23% with speedy runners. #5 High Velocity enters in for Bob Baffert and Drayden Van Dyke. An impressive maiden win going five and a half and this son of Quality Road should break sharply. Van Dyke and Baffert win 38% as a team.

BetPTC.com – Breeders’ Cup Preview – Friday Day One

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BetPTC.com / Breeders’ Cup Preview / Friday 11/1/19

by: Ed Meyer

Santa Anita

Race #5 – The G1 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf Sprint – 4:12 pm EDT

BetPTC.com Selections / #9 – Four Wheel Drive / #7 – Kimari / #5 – Encoder

#9 Four Wheel Drive is a son of American Pharaoh and a perfect 2 for 2. Wesley Ward and Irad Ortiz team up as he’ll duke it out with stablemate Kimari and hang on at the wire. Ortiz wins 23% on the turf and his sire wins 21% with his turf runners. #7 Kimari comes from the Wesley Ward barn and closed strongly to beat the boys at Keeneland in the Indian Summer after getting bumped and circling the entire field. John Velasquez back in the saddle and this is a positive sign. #5 Encoder comes from the John Sadler barn with Flavien Prat in the saddle. Beaten favorite last out and cuts back in distance,  Prat wins with 23% of his turf mounts.

 

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Race #6 – The G1 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf – 1-mile turf – 4:52 pm EDT

BetPTC.com Selections / #12 – Arizona / #14 – Hit the Road / #13 – Fort Myers

#12 Arizona comes from the yard of Aidan O’Brien with Ryan Moore in the irons. Last out faced Europe’s top sprinter in Pinatubo and gets added ground today. First Lasix and should relish the firm going. #14 Hit the Road is a son of More Than Ready for Dan Blacker and Flavien Prat. 1 for 1 at Santa Anita and exits a strong closing win in the Zuma Beach. 2 for 2 on turf and moving to Prat is a big plus. #13 Fort Myers is a son of War Front for Aidan O’Brien with Wayne Lordan getting the nod. The yard’s runners must be respected and they all do well in this race historically. Adds Lasix shipping in from Dundalk and shouldn’t be overlooked.

 

Race #7 – The G1 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies – 5:32 pm EDT

BetPTC.com Selections / #4 – British Idiom / #7 – Wicked Whisper / #6 – Bast

#4 British Idiom is a Brad Cox trainee with Javier Castellano in the saddle. They won the G-1 Alcibiades and it appeared to be the perfect prep. She is 2 for 2 and looks to stalk and pounce. #7 Wicked Whisper comes from the barn of Steve Asmussen with Joel Rosario going wire to wire off the G1 Frizette. She has the perfect breeding to carry her speed. Add in the sharp work and you have to look very closely. #6 Bast is a daughter of Uncle Mo for the Baffert barn winning 28% at the meet. She’s a stalking sort and has John Velasquez in the driver’s seat.

 

Race #8 – The G1 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies Turf – 6:12 pm EDT

BetPTC.com Selections / #9 – Albigna / #12 – Sweet Melina / #7 – Crystalle

#9 Albigna is a daughter of Zoffany (IRE) from the Harrington yard with Shane Foley aboard. Exits a Group 1 at Lonchamp and her dam Freedonia has 6 starters, 5 winners, and 5 turf winners to her credit. She should enjoy the firm footing today. #12 Sweet Melania is a daughter of American Pharaoh for Todd Pletcher and Jose Ortiz. 3rd off the layoff and exits an impressive win in the G2 Jessamine at Kee. She’ll be up close and Ortiz wins 20% with his early runners. #7 Crystalle comes from the John Kimmel barn with Joel Rosario. A daughter of Palace Malice who is stalking closer. Look for her rolling at the top of the lane in high gear.

 

Race #9 – The G1 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile – 1 1/16 – 7:03 pm EDT

BetPTC.com Selections / #5 – Scabbard / #1 – Dennis’ Moment / #6 – Eight Rings

#5 Scabbard is a son of More Than Ready for trainer Eddie Kenneally and Mike Smith. He was forced to steady last out and rallied strongly with a promising late kick. There is plenty of speed in here to set up a late runner from the back of the pack. Look for a square price. #1 Dennis’ Moment is a son of Tiznow for Dale Romans and Irad Ortiz. He is looking for 3 in a row and was impressive winning the G3 Iroquois. A versatile runner who could make this a big win for Team Romans. He’ll take a ton of money given all the hype.  #6 Eight Rings comes in for Bob Baffert and Johnny V. Impressive winner of the G1 American Pharoah and he’ll be winging it on the lead. If left alone he could be a handful turning for home.

 

BetPTC.com Graded Stakes Preview – Oct. 4-5th

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BetPTC.com / Weekend Stakes Preview / Fall Stars Weekend 

by: Ed Meyer

Keeneland / Friday

Race #8 – The G2 Phoenix – 6f – 4:57 pm EDT

BetPTC.com Selections / #3 – Whitmore / #6 – Hog Creek Hustle / #7 – Promises Fulfilled

#3 Whitmore is from the Ron Moquette barn with Joel Rosario in the saddle. Been off for three months and has an affinity for Keeneland, being 2 for 2 ITM. He lost by a nose in last year’s edition and sports some sharp works to prepare. This closer has real upsides as he fires very strong off the layoff. #6 Hog Creek Hustle is a son of Overanalyze for Vickie Foley. Corey Lanerie in the irons and he fits this deep closer like a glove. I’ve been watching this guy since February in the G2 Risen Star. He is maturing very nicely. #7 Promises Fulfilled is a son of Shackleford for Dale Romans and Luis Saez has the mount. A speedy colt who will ensure an honest pace. Add in he is 2 for 2 at Kee and he’s hard to dismiss.

Race #9 – The G1 Alcibiades – 1 1/16 – 5:30 pm EDT

BetPTC.com Selections / #7 – Perfect Alibi / #4 – Alandra / #9 – Sequin

#7 Perfect Alibi comes from the Mark Casse barn and Jose Ortiz is the pilot. A daughter of Sky Mesa who is 3rd off the layoff seeking her 3rd in a row.  She exits the G1 Spinaway, exchanging bumps but drawing away late. She should be a bit closer and pounce on the far turn with a quick turn of foot. Ortiz wins 21% with closing type runners. #4 Alandra is a daughter of Blame for Shug McGaughey and Joel Rosario. A speedy filly who won her only start. The distance should be no problem and her dam Altesse is a perfect 3 for 3 with her progeny. #9 Sequin is making the turf to dirt switch coming from Kyd for trainer Wesley Ward. Tyler Gaffalione has the call and has two very good place efforts. Ward spots his runners well and to drop a maiden in here could get you a square price. Both efforts were beaten chalk attempts and Ward can bring them ready.

 

Keeneland / Saturday

Race #7 – The G2 Thoroughbred Club of America – 6f – 4:29 pm EDT

BetPTC.com Selections / #8 – Chalon / #3 – Spiced Perfection / #4 – Danuska’ My Girl

#8 Chalon is a daughter of Dialed In for Arnaud Delacour and Paco Lopez. 3rd time off the layoff and she is 3 for 3 ITM over the course. She missed by a nose last year in this race and should get a perfect stalking trip looking for payback. #3 Spiced Perfection comes from the barn of Peter Miller with Javier Castellano aboard. She’s been off 5 months working solid clips in the morning. The trainer wins 22% with sprinters and cuts back in distance to come calling late in the lane. #4 Danuska’s My Girl is a daughter of Shackleford for Jerry Hollendorfer and the turf master Flavien Prat winning 24% on the sod. She’s a speedy gal shipping in from the left coast. Prat taking the mount makes her dangerous on the lead.

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Race #8 – The G1 First Lady Stakes – 1 mile on the turf – 5:04 pm EDT

BetPTC.com Selections / #6 – Vasilika / #7 – Indian Blessing / #11 – Rushing Fall

#6 Vasilika comes from the Hollendorfer barn with Flavien Prat in the irons. She cuts back to a mile and can give plenty of grey hairs watching her come flying in the shadow of the wire. Her late kick is ultra impressive and the barn wins 21% making a 3rd off the layoff move. Prat will have her high gear turning for home. #7 Indian Blessing comes from the Ed Walker yard with Jamie Spencer in the saddle. Two back they shipped over from Germany and then came rolling late to be bested by a dirty nose in the G-2 Ballston Spa. Look for her silks in the final yards down the lane. #11 Rushing Fall is a speedy gal for Chad Brown and Javier Castellano teaming up. She’s been off for two months and been working a regular morning clip. Castellano wins 21% with speedsters and he’ll drop over from the outside post to find a comfy position to save some ground. If she can grab the lead around the far turn she could be very dangerous.

 

Race #9 – The G1 Breeders’ Futurity – 1 1/16 – 5:39 pm EDT

BetPTC.com Selections / #10 – Gouverneur Morris / #1 – Tapit It to Win / #2 – By Your Side

#10  Gouverneur Morris is a son of Constitution who wins 24% of his firsters. They won by nine handily at Saratoga and have been working lights out. He’s a stalking sort and look for Castellano to have him in the catbird seat by the halfway point. I’m looking for a strong late punch and a trip to the Breeders’ Cup. #1 Tapit It to Win is a son of Tapit for Mark Casse and Tyler Gaffalione. They switched from turf to dirt and he won like a good thing. His bullet work shows promise that all systems are go as they get added ground going two turns. #2 By Your Side is a son of Constituition for trainer Eddie Kennealy and Corey Lanerie. He was 2 for 2 and then caught a sloppy track in the G-1 Hopeful. Toss that race and you’ll see a colt give a game effort.

 

Race #10 – The G1 Shadwell Turfwell Mile – 1 mile on the turf – 6:15 pm EDT

BetPTC.com Selections / #12- Suedois / #6 – Admission Office / #4 – Valid Point.

#12 Suedois comes from the David O’Meara yard with Jamie Spencer aboard. He is 1 for 1 at Kee and took home $600k from that score in Lexington. This son of Le Harve (IRE) gets Lasix as he’ll be looking for his spot mid pack by the first turn. He’s game and Spencer is a world class rider. #6 Admission Office is a son of Point of Entry for Bryan Lynch and Jose Ortiz. He’s been off for 3 months and is a strong closer. He had a solid allowance win over the track and today is his test making another step up the class ladder. He was a beaten favorite last out and the barn comes back to score 22% looking to turn the tables. #4 Valid Point is a son of Scat Daddy for Chad Brown and Javier Castellano. Been away from the races 56 days and was ultra impressive winning the G-1 Secretariat.

BetPTC.com Graded Stakes Preview – Sept. 28

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BetPTC.com / Weekend Stakes Preview

by: Ed Meyer

Belmont Park

Race #4 – The G1 Vosburgh – 6f – 2:35 pm EDT

BetPTC.com Selections / #4 – Imperial Hint / #6 – Firenze Fire / #2 – American Power

 

#4 Imperial Hint comes to post for Luis Carvajal and Javier Castellano.  A few races back he ran a game effort in the Dubai Golden Shaheen and four months later romped home in the G1 Vanderbilt. He should attend the pace from the break and looks to take this race two years running. #6 Firenze Fire is 3rd off the shelf for Jason Servis who is winning 38% at the meet. Irad Ortiz retains the call and scores 29% teaming up with Servis. He’s a closer who loves the oval and Ortiz scores with 22% of his late runners. #2 American Fire is a son of Power Broker for Linda Rice and Jose Ortiz. He seeks his 4th straight win and gets the acid test moving up the class ladder. Minor awards are not out of the question.

 

Race #9 – The G3 Pilgrim – 1 1/16 on turf – 5:16 pm EDT

BetPTC.com Selections / #2 – No Word / #7 – Structor / #6 – Our Country

 

#2 No Word hails from the barn of Todd Pletcher with Jose Ortiz in the irons. This son of Silent Name (JPN) was ultra impressive in his maiden win after getting bumped and jostled about. Ortiz gave a picture perfect ride that day and his dam Listen A.P. has 8 starters, 7 winners, and 6 turf winners. #7 Structor is a Chad Brown trainee with Irad Ortiz in the saddle. They go to the winner’s circle 25% as a team this year. The barn must be respected as they win 25% with 2nd grass efforts. The major danger. #6 Our Country comes from the barn of George Weaver and Manny Franco is the reinsman. Always brings a strong closing kick and was a beaten favorite in the G3 With Anticipation after stumbling at the start. Weaver wins at a 25% clip with runners looking for payback.

 

Race #10 – The G1 Jockey Club Gold Cup – 1 1/4 – 5:49 pm EDT

BetPTC.com Selections / #2 – Code of Honor / #1 – Tacitus / #4 – Preservationist

 

#2 Code of Honor is a son of Noble Mission who is 7 for 8 ITM lifetime for Shug McGaughey. John Velasquez gets the call as they are 2nd off the layoff from a brief freshening. His victory in the G1 Travers was awesome and he is a closing type who should spot his place in this compact field of five. Johnny V has been having quite the year and winning this race in the Farish colors should cap off a great summer. #1 Tacitus is a son of Tapit for Bill Mott and Jose Ortiz. 3rd off, and a beaten favorite last out should have this gutsy colt ready to turn the tables on the top choice. #4 Preservationist is a speedy son of Arch who should provide a quick pace. He is 3 for 3 ITM over the Belmont surface and Junior Alvarado will be keen on the lead as the gates break. He is a major threat.  Short but quality field in the JCGC.

 

 

 

BetPTC.com Graded Stakes Preview – Sept. 21

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BetPTC Blog  / Weekend Stakes Preview

By: Ed Meyer

Belmont

Race #8 – The G3 Noble Damsel – 1 mile turf – 4:51pm EDT

BetPTC.com Selections / #5 – Significant Form / #4 – Capla Temptress / #2 – Stella di Camelot

#5 Significant Form is 3rd off the layoff for Chad Brown who is winning 29% at the meet. She is 3 for 4 ITM at Belmont and got in up the shadow of the wire with John Velasquez last time out. She’s a stalker bred for the turf and Johnny V has been riding exceptionally well this meet winning 27%. #4 Capla Temptress is a daughter of Lope De Vega (IRE) for Bill Mott and Jose Lezcano. A closer who fits well and makes her first start in 49 days. Her last race in the De La Rose showed very positive signs moving forward. #2 Stella di Camelot comes in for Chad Brown and Javier Castellano. 2 for 2 ITM at Belmont and comes off a 49 day layoff. She’ll be a late mover and will hit high gear in the homestretch.

Race #10 – The G2 Kelso – 1 mile – 5:57 pm EDT

BetPTC.com Selections / #2 – True Timber / #3 – Pat on the Back / #7 – Tale of Silence

#2 True Timber is a son of Mineshaft coming to post for Kiaran McLaughlin and Joe Bravo. Takes a big drop in class and is 4 for 5 ITM over the track. Been away for 5 mo and the barn can get them ready to fire at first asking. #3 Pat on the Back enters for Jeremiah Englehardt and Dylan Davis. A speedy son of Congrats who is 10 for 10 ITM at Bel. Stepping up from New York company and gets the big acid test today. #7 – Tale of Silence goes to post for Barclay Tagg and Javier Castellano. He is 4 for 6 ITM over the track and is a closing type runner. His last race was a perfect prep and the rider switch is a positive sign.

Remington Park september

Parx

Race #10- The G-1 Cotillion – 1 1/16 – 5:14 pm EDT

BetPTC.com Selections / #8 – Guarana / #1 – Serengeti Empress / #10 – Bellafina

#8 Guarana is a daughter of Ghostzapper for Chad Brown and Jose Ortiz. A perfect 3 for 3 and was impressive winning the G1 Acorn and G1 CCA Oaks. She comes in freshened and a bullet work unde3r her belt to be ready. She’ll be winging on the front end if you want to catch her. #1 Serengeti Empress is a Thom Amoss trainee with Irad Ortiz in the irons. She rolls in off a 49 day break and was ultra impressive winning the Oaks earlier this year from the #13 post. Her early style should have her duking it out with the #8 from the gate break. #10 Bellafina is a daughter of Quality Road and adds blinkers once again. Simon Callaghan and Flavien Prat team up and she is a very promising runner who can upset the apple cart.

Race #11- The G1 PA Derby – 1 1/8 – 5:48 pm EDT

BetPTC.com Selections / #7 – Maximum Security / #2 – Improbable / #1 – Math Wizard

#7 Maximum Security is a speedy colt who has done little since the Derby. Jason Servis has done an excellent job bringing him ready and his A game is always on tap. Luis Saez has been the regular pilot since February and they fit like a glove. I think we’ll see him go right to the front and take it from there. If anyone pushes back, he can back off. If nobody pressures he’ll be the engine. He’s been off for two months and Servis has a couple of works under his belt over the course. #2 Improbable is the perfect stalker from the Baffert barn. He can sit back as much as needed and turn up the heat when the real running begins. Mike Smith has the call and is always feared at the windows when the big money is on the line. Should offer up a nice stretch run to be the major danger. #1 Math Wizard is a solid colt who fought the claiming ranks early in his career. He is 7 for 12 ITM lifetime and brings Edgard Zayas to launch a late bid for minor shares.

BetPTC.com Graded Stakes Preview – Aug. 31

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BetPTC.com / Weekend Stakes Preview

by: Ed Meyer

 

Saratoga

Race #10 – The G2 Glens Falls – 1 3/8 on the turf – 5:27 pm EDT

BetPTC.com Selections / #4 – Santa Monica / #2 – Fools’ Gold / #1- Empress of the Nile

#4 Santa Monica is a daughter of Mastercraftsman (IRE) for trainer Chad Brown with Irad Ortiz in the saddle. This is her 2nd off the layoff where Brown wins 25% and is two for two ITM at the Spa. She is a stout closer and had to steady sharply last out. She regained her momentum and finished a game third. Look for a strong finish by Ortiz down the lane. #2 Fool’s Gold is a daughter of Medaglia d’ Oro for Chad Brown and Javier Castellano. She is 2 for 2 ITM at the  Spa and won the G3 Waya last out. Her solid late kick will fit in with well with the distance. Castellano wins 23% on the greensward. #1 Empress of the Nile is a daughter of Pioneer of the Nile for trainer Graham Motion and Irad Ortiz. Motion is 4 for 6 ITM the past couple weeks as she makes a 3rd off the layoff move capped with a 7 wide late rally win last out. She is 2 for 3 ITM at Saratoga and Ortiz in the irons is ultra attractive.

Race #11 – The G1 Woodward – 1 1/8 – 6:00 pm EDT

BetPTC.com Selections / #7 – Yoshida / #3 – Vino Rosso / #9 – Tom’s d’Etat

#7 Yoshida is a son of Heart’s Cry (JPN) for trainer Bill Mott and Joel Rosario in the driver’s seat. 2nd off shipping in from Churchill Downs and his last effort in the G1 Whitney was strong. He is 2 for 2 ITM at the Spa and runners coming through Kentucky have been doing well at the Spa. Rosario fits and Mott is dangerous every time he saddles. He won this race last year on his way to the Breeders’ Cup. #3 Vino Rosso is a son of Curlin for trainer Todd Pletcher and Johnny V. Blinkers off today and the barn wins 23% on this equipment move. They are coming off a short 25 day layoff and Pletcher has a maturing runner looking for a sharp effort. #9 Tom’s d’ Etat is a son of Smart Strike for trainer Al Stall and Irad Ortiz. He’s a horse for the course going a perfect three for three at the Spa. Ortiz should have him up close leading the train. Ortiz wins 24% with early runners and has a solid win in the Alydar Stakes.

Del Mar

Race #7 – The G2 John C. Mabee – 1 1/8 on the turf – 8:00 pm EDT

BetPTC.com Selections / #1 – Vasilika / #9 – Elysea’s World / #4 – Toinette

#1 Vasilika is a daughter of Skipshot for trainer Jerry Hollendorfer. She reunites with Flavien Prat and makes her 2nd off the layoff move. She was a beaten favorite in the G2 Yellow Ribbon and stretches out to a preferred distance where she’ll stalk mid pack and pounce. #9 Elysea’s World is a daughter of Champs Elysees (GB) making her 2nd off effort for Richard Baltas. She’s a stone cold closer and the added ground should be welcome. She’ll be in high gear turning for home. #4 Toinette is a daughter of Scat Daddy for trainer Neil Drysdale and Rafael Bejarano. She is 1 for 1 at Del Mar and gets added distance. This is her 2nd start of the year and is 5 for 6 with wins on the green. She’ll be stalking the speed and make a big run around the far turn. Bejarano wins 19% with stalking type runners.

Race #9 – The G1 Del Mar Debutante – 7f – 9:00 pm EDT

BetPTC.com Selections / #5 – Bast / #7 – Inspiressa / #2 – Comical

#5 Bast is a two yr old daughter of Uncle Mo for trainer Bob Baffert winning 25% with Drayden Van Dyke in the driver’s seat. They add blinkers today and that yields a 35% win clip for the barn. She was off slow last out and came flying four wide in the lane closing stoutly. The blinkers should keep her focused and stretching out in distance should be a real bonus. The rider and trainer have been five for five the past two weeks and owns a sharp work to have her ready. #7 Inspiressa hails from the barn of Peter Eurton with Joe Talamo in the irons. This daughter of Commissioner wins 33% with his firsters and she did not disappoint. She was forced out in the G2 Sorrento with 1st Lasix and second time Lasix gets a 29% win clip for the barn. She takes her game to the next level and I’m looking for a big effort. #2 Comical comes from the Doug O’Neill barn with Norberto Arroyo. 3rd off the shelf and this speedy gal should be dangerous with a new rider today. She should have a garden trip just off the leader and take over the engine down the backstretch. O’Neill wins 17% with his sprinters.

 

BetPTC.com Travers Stakes Day Preview – Aug. 24

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BetPTC.com / Weekend Stakes Preview

By: Ed Meyer

 

Saratoga

Race #8 – The G2 Ballston Spa – 1 1/16 on the turf – 3:35 pm EDT

BetPTC.com Selections / #3 – Secret Message / #8 – Starship Jubilee / #2 – Fifty Five

#3 Secret Message is a daughter of Hat Trick (JPN) making her second trip off the layoff while dropping down a notch in class. She gets a rider change to Jose Ortiz who is winning 23% at the Spa. His dam Westside Singer has 2 starters, 2 winners, 1 stakes winner, and 2 turf winners to her credit. She’s a closing type and owns a bullet work while cutting back to a perfect distance. #8 Starship Jubilee ships in from Woodbine off a 56 day layoff. She is bred to relish the greensward and her works are solid. Jose Lezcano in the saddle and trainer Kevin Attard wins 18% with graded stakes. The forecast calls for sunny and dry conditions and she hasn’t seen a firm turf since January at GP. A stalker who should be just off Scottish Jig getting a garden trip. Two back she was a beaten favorite to Secret Message and they know each other well. #2 Fifty Five comes from the barn of Chad Brown with Javier Castellano winning 26% together. She is 18 for 19 ITM on the turf and the New York bred can get motoring late in the lane. Look for her at the quarter pole skimming the hedge.

Race #9 – The G1 Personal Ensign – 1 1/8 – 4:12 pm EDT

BetPTC.com Selections / #4 – Elate / #1 – Midnight Bison / #5 – Wow Cat

#4 Elate comes in for trainer Bill Mott and Jose Ortiz who are winning at 33% as a team. She is 3 for 3 ITM at the Spa and makes her 3rd off the shelf cutting back in distance. After winning the Fleur De Lis at CD she has stepped up her game. She’s been knocking heads with Midnight Bisou and has been finishing behind her. Today is her turn and look for a strong late kick with Ortiz who wins 21% with late runners. #1 Midnight Bisou is a daughter of Midnight Lute for trainer Steve Asmussen with Mike Smith in the saddle. She’s hit the board at the Spa but hasn’t been able to seal the deal. She is seeking her 6th straight win drawing the rail post into the short first turn run. Smith will get her in good shape and look for a renewed battle with Elate. #5 Wow Cat is a daughter of Lookin At Lucky for Chad Brown and John Velasquez in the irons. 2nd start of the year as she is 3 for 3 ITM at Saratoga. This gal was a beaten favorite in the G3 Shuvee and that may have been a perfect prep for today. She shows a snappy work on August 17 and faced some pretty tough gals coming into the race. She’ll be calling late in the lane.

FINALS DAYS!

Race #10 – The G1 Sword Dancer – 1 1/2 on the turf – 4:49 pm EDT

BetPTC.com Selections / #6 – Ya Primo / #8 – Channel Maker / #9 – Sadler’s Joy

#6 Ya Primo is a son of Mastercraftsman (IRE) for Chad Brown and Jose Ortiz. He gave a solid account of himself in the G2 Bowling Green first time in the states getting Lasix. Draws the rail and owns two bullet works looking to stalk the speed and turn it loose down the lane. #8 Channel Maker comes in for Bill Mott and Joel Rosario. 2nd off the layoff and was wide most of his last trip in the G2 Bowling Green. He still managed a solid 4th as the race was better than appeared on paper. He shows good works and Mott wins 22% off a beaten favorite loss. Look for a mid flight trip moving around the far turn. #9 Sadler’s Joy is a son of Kitten’s Joy for trainer Thom Albertrani and Jose Lezcano. He is 4 for 7 ITM at the Spa and makes his 2nd start of the year. It looks like the Breeders’ Cup is on his mind and was closing quick last out only to get blocked multiple times down the lane. A clean trip and a new rider may make a big difference today.

Race #11 – The G1 Travers – 1 1/4 – 5:44 pm EDT

BetPTC.com Selections / #6 – Tacitus / #7 – Mucho Gusto / #2 – Code of Honor

#6 Tacitus comes from the barn of Bill Mott and Jose Ortiz. Blinkers on today and was a beaten favorite last out where the barn comes back to win 23%. 2nd time off the layoff, and if that bullet work is any indication I think we’ll see a tough son of Tapit kicking in late. He runs solid every time and the blinkers should keep his mind on business. #7 Mucho Gusto comes from the barn of Bob Baffert with Joe Talamo in the saddle. 2nd best in the Haskell Stakes and Baffert is 1 for 1 at the Spa. He went home to Del Mar to work and comes back fresh and ready. Look for a closeup trip and Talamo wins 20% with early style runners. This son of Mucho Macho Man should be right near the engine as soon as the gates open. #2 Code of Honor hails from the barn of Shug McGaughey with John Velasquez in the saddle. He’s been off 49 days and 1 for 1 at the Spa. He cruised in the G3 Dwyer as a prep and should be right in the mix. He broke his maiden at the Spa and Johnny V knows this son of Noble Mission well. I like his work tab and Shug comes out strong on marquee days.