It's Sun Stakes Saturday at The Downs at Mohegan Sun Pocono. Races 9-12 will feature some of the biggest names in North America competing for $1.8 million in purses. The undefeated trotting filly Manchego looks to beat the boys in Race 12, the Earl Beal Memorial Final, which has a $500,000 purse. My top three selections don't include Manchego, and time will tell how wise that strategy will be.

Last night at Hawthorne, the posted $48 Pick 4 ticket connected. Although chalky the $17 winner in the opening leg helped make the ticket profitable. The (4/3/2/7,9) combination paid $125.70 on a 0.50 wager.

Comments and selections below are based on a fast track.

Race 9-James Lynch Memorial Final $300,00 Purse

1-Sidewalk Dancer (5-2)-Has been sharp and turned some heads in narrow loss last week, rates and edge off that try.
6-Alexa's Power (5-1)-Tetrick should be more aggressive this week, could work a trip and roll by in late going.
2-Youaremycandygirl (3-1)-She is 11 of 15 LT and deserves respect, 1st time Lasix tonight and will look to others on top.

Race 10-Max Hempt Memorial Final $500,000 Purse

7-Lather Up (2-1)- Has been a monster (7-7), won't buck that trend and with a decent trip should continue to be perfect.
2-Hitman Hill (9-2)-Set a LT mark in elims and will probably be on the engine again, could be sitting on another big try.
3-Springsteen (8-1)-2nd time Lasix for Team Allard looks like a player and post draw should help.

Race 11-The Ben Franklin Free-For-All-Final $500,000 Purse

2-McWicked (5-2)-Another very competitive race but rates a slight edge, likes the track and starts inside.
4-Heaven Rocks A (4-1)-Came back on fire after a few weeks off, loaded with speed and also likes this oval.
5-All Bets Off (3-1)-Could blast out and try to control the race, 2nd chalk is very dangerous.

Race 12-Earl Beal Memorial Final $500,000 Purse

4-Crystal Fashion (3-1)-Has been a bridesmaid in last 2 but should be in great striking range to finish off the mile.
9-Six Pack (5-1)-Might be the best horse but post will be a challenge. Came back strong in last after over 3 weeks off.
5-Fashionwoodchopper (12-1)-Breaking issues have been an issue in 2018, but last was better and could spice up exotics.

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