by Al Cimaglia
December 14, 2025
Woodbine Mohawk Park begins the week with an 11-race card. The 0.20 Early Pick 4 starts in Race 3, and it will be my focus. Comments and selections below are based on a fast track.
Race 3 (7:31 PM EST)
3-Wilcat Rocky (5-1)-Evidently had issues this year only making 13 starts and has taken 1 picture. The last line is better than it looks, showed some early speed and was blocked down the lane. Finished gamely and will use and fade the program chalk #1 Mr Ibiza N and hope the 1-hole doesn't do him any favors.
4-Catfish Jack (10-1)-Could get a suck along trip and does have the speed to win but needs some lively fractions. This is the 3rd try on Lasix and rolled the back half in 56.2 in last but was too far back early on. Will look for an aggressive start, the fractions should be honest and could offer a big price.
6-Tricky McWicky (5/2)-Left from post 8, raced close to the lead and the fractions were quick. Hung in until late in the mile and lost by a 1/2 of length. Gets post relief, draws the choice slot, and should be a main player.
Race 4 (7:54 PM EST)
4-Devils Arch (2-1)-Made the most of a pocket ride and drew off down the lane. Went off as the chalk and acted like it. Recent form has been sharp, likes to win (26-7-1-2) and could benefit from a similar trip again.
9-Ghostly Casper (5/2)-Came with a good try from post 10 in the 2nd race in town. Got on the engine but faded down the lane. This is only the 3rd race since 10-23 but does appear to be rounding into form and should be better tonight.
Race 5 (8:17 PM EST)
5-State One Smiley (6-1)-Has won 3 straight all against this kind. The streak will stop at some point but has a post edge on others with gate speed. Draws well and is too sharp to leave off the ticket, especially at this price.
7-Ginger Tree Finny (9/5)-Got on the engine, took control, and drew off winning by 5 lengths. That was the 2nd straight against this kind and is a logical play but will offer no value.
Race 6 (8:40 PM EST)
1-Classic Magic (10-1)-Won at this level from the rail 2 back. Then bumped up and was badly beaten in both races. Should be a nice price and could get sucked around. JMac sticks and will look for an aggressive start.
2-Bella Cavalla (5/2)-Had a wide trip 2 back and was dull in the last start. Now takes a meaningful drop and should get an aggressive drive from Doug McNair.
$1 Early Pick 4
3,4,6/4,9/5,7/1,2
Total Bet=$24
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