by Al Cimaglia
June 4, 2023
Northfield Park has a 15-race card scheduled with the $1.00 Late Pick 4 starting in Race 11. The sequence has a $10,000 guaranteed pool with a low 14% takeout, and it will be my focus.
Comments and selections below are based on a fast track.
Race 11 (9:40 PM EST)
5-Almanac (5-1)-Draws a nice post, has been close at this level and this could be the time to take a picture versus this kind. Davis Jr could drop in the pocket behind the one below and trip out.
6-Carolina Beach (7/2)-Won at this level in a gutsy performance and led every step of the way. Merriman will leave and could try the same plan. This barn has been hot and with the right trip could win again even without landing on top off the gate.
Race 12 (10:02 PM EST)
2-Mad Maude (20-1)-Was used off the gate into a quick opening quarter, landed in the pocket and outraced its odds (42-1) to finish 2nd, 3/4 of a length behind the winner. Has the gate speed to get a similar trip and with the post edge should be a player at a price.
5-Titi's Ava (2-1)-Camera shy mare ducked in the last start and then had no way out. Not saying she would have won but can be competitive here on the drop. The issue is the short price but should be in the hunt.
7-French Shaker (5/2)-Put in a needed start, was wide around the opening turn caught a shuffle and showed a little life down the lane. This is a soft spot and the 2nd start since 3-11. Should be better, the drop in class helps and could overcome the post with a good trip.
Race 13 (10:24 PM EST)
4-Turbo Hill (5/2)-Came off a 10-month hiatus and was entered aggressively which didn't work out well. This will be the 2nd start for the Kreiser barn and the 4h race this year. Drops to a level of past success and should be a player.
5-Captainofrocknroll (6-1)-Similar to the one above, drops to the level of its last picture. Lems has some gate speed to work with and should be forwardly placed throughout.
Race 14 (10:46 PM EST)
4-Thornbush Hanover (5/2)-Went off at 3/5 and was used hard in the opening quarter to get on the engine and stopped the clock in 54.1 at the half. Raced well but was tackled by a Schillaci stablemate who isn't in this field. Steps up but will respect chances and the trip might not be as taxing tonight.
6-Atlas Hanover (3-1)-This will be the 1st start of the year and the 4-year-old takes on older. Comes off a snappy 153.4 qualifier and won by over 10 lengths. Has the gate speed to get a good early seat. The 7-time winner in 2022 banked over $123,000 and could fire hot off the bench.
$1.00 Late Pick 4
5,6/2,5,7/4,5/4,6
Total Bet=$24
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