by Al Cimaglia
July 20, 2018
Tonight, we will deviate from the usual tracks and take a swing at the Saratoga Friday night card as this afternoon is also their thoroughbred opener. For those playing the afternoon card there is a $1 million XB Rewards point split opportunity for Xpressbet account holders who register and place bets on Exactas.
Yesterday driver Walley Hennesssey led all pilots with three winners. Trainer Andrew Scardella led conditioners with two trips to the winner's circle.
Comments and selections below are based on a fast track.
5-IC A Free Spirit-Won handily at this class after a lame scratch, will string along.
1-No Trouble Here-Should like the rail and stay in the hunt.
3-El Chivato-Camera shy but last was a sharp effort in a quick pace.
3-All Charged Up-2nd ML chalk returns to Stga and likes to win, will respect chances on smaller oval.
5-Stylish Beachwhere-Hennessey sticks in 2nd start at this class, may get the top and steal a quarter.
4-Rock N Roll Rosie-5-year-old mare is usually competitive and ML chalk should be in the hunt.
3-Pick Six-Rates a slight edge, should be 1st or 2nd at first turn and may find a way to get 2nd win of the year.
4-Wishiwasagigolo-Tossing last and will use Hennessey at 8-1 in the ML to be part of the ticket.
5-Jefferson Tare-Will respect chances to be a threat, a brisk pace would help and could happen.
4-Cerberus N-NZ bred made it look easy in U.S. debut on Lasix, should be bet hard and looks solid.
1-Star Of Terror-ML chalk looks the part, has kept better company and gets a ++ driver change.
6-Mavericks Luck-Pace could be hot, looking for a price to spice up gimmicks and hit the bottom of ticket.
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