Yonkers Raceway has a 12-race card to begin the week. The feature rolls in Race 8, an Open Pace with a $36,000 purse. The $1.00 Late Pick 4 starts in Race 9, and it will be my focus.

Comments and selections below are based on a fast track.

Race 9

1-Arden Messi N (7/2)-Comes off a strong effort pacing the 2nd half in 55.2 to win. Takes a considerable step up but drawing the rail shouldn't hurt. Bartlett sticks, and was the regular pilot on #4 who competes again at this class.
6-Casual Cool (5-1)-This is the 3rd start off a layoff and won his last at PcD in 152.2. Goodell should be racing near the top of the stack after the wings fold. This veteran has won 12 of 42 here and looks like a threat at a solid price.
8-Semi Tough (5-1)-Taking a swing that Joe B will leave and get a good early seat. Doesn't need to land on the point to win but needs an aggressive steer to be put in play. Drops and that could make a difference if the trip goes well.

Race 10

1-Moonlight Shadow (5-1)-Drops and took a week off, both could help. Draws inside and should be on the engine or in the pocket and either can work for a picture. Looking for a big try and should offer a square price.
5-Qualitry Bud (7/2)-This veteran found the 2-hole in last into a quick opening quarter and gamely brushed by close to the wire. Holland, who is the regular pilot takes over for Gingras, and the same plan as last week could unfold tonight.

Race 11

2-Bee To Bee (5/2)-This will be the 3rd start since 9-26 and is the only dropper in the field. Cashed 3rd place checks while racing in the Open Handicap and will relish the company. This Burke trainee should be dialed on high and be difficult to beat with a clean trip.

Race 12

3-Tiger Baron (5-1)-Draws inside, Joe B takes the lines and this could be the night for the 1st Yonkers win this year. This could be "go" time and the pilot knows how to step on the gas when the wings fold.
5-Velocity Komodo (2-1)-Steps up after an overdue win and knows how to compete at this level. Team Stratton trainee could find a nice cover flow and take another picture. There should be an honest pace and that could help.
6-Benhope Rulz N (20-1)-Faded down the lane last week versus better and had missed a start. This veteran hasn't been finishing miles and hasn't been coming back in sequence on a regular basis. Willing to take a swing with a new set of hands in Goodell getting the assignment. Has the gate speed to land in the pocket and trip out versus this kind.

$1.00 Late Pick 4

1,6,8/1,5/2/3,5,6
Total Bet=$18

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