by Al Cimaglia
November 23, 2019
There's a star-studded cast ready to roll at the Meadowlands. This is the last night for big stakes in 2019 and it figures to be a very competitive 13-race card. The Pick 4 begins in Race 8, the sequence has a $75,000 guaranteed pool with a 15% takeout and it will be my focus.
Comments and selections below are based on a fast track.
Race 8
1-American History (9/2)-Overlooking last at RcR when faded down the lane. Breeders Crown winner can get a similar trip as he got back at Wbsb on 10/25. This race may come down to the best drive and Joe B needs to be sharp again.
5-Dealt A Winner (10-1)-Avoided a speed duel at the start of the Potomac in last start and came on late. Could use the same script here and pop at a price. Dave Miller should have 7-year-old in play again to rally late and pace could be hot.
6-Dorsoduro Hanover (8-1)-Faded in the Potomac but was used very hard at the start. Could get the top tonight or may let #7 and #1 battle into the first turn. Another who will be dependent on the trip but could be overlooked at the windows.
7-Bettor's Wish (3-1)-3-year-old takes on a tough group of older foes but has been sharp all year and shouldn't be overlooked. This post could be an issue as Dunn will likely leave and hope for the best, should be some start.
Race 9
3-Hen Party (10-1)-Looking to spread a bit to shoot against the chalk as in Race 8 and this filly is an interesting play. Likes to race close to the top and finally draws inside. Not crazy about this being her 18th start but does look like a live price shot.
4-Marloe Hanover (9/2)-In a spot to get a 2-hole trip behind #6 the program chalk who has ruled this class. Best to respect connections and this gal is in sharp form. Figuring last week was a typical Dave Miller tune-up and now could be sitting on a big try.
5-Jk First Lady (7/2)-Took the long way around to win last week's elimination. Gets a good post draw and Gingras could benefit from a sizzling pace and finish fastest of all.
6-Lyons Sentinel (2-1)-Winner in 9 of 13 and was a runner-up in the other four starts. This filly is as tough as nails and comes off a track record score at Dover Downs. Tetrick may shoot for the top but that's not the only way she can win. Deserves respect no doubt but will look to shoot against in a tough race.
Race 10
1-Six Pack (3-1)-One of a few retiring to stud after tonight and now finally gets a rare inside post draw. Should be forwardly placed and will be very tough to beat with a clean trip.
5-Manchego (2-1)-Muscle Hill mare isn't afraid to take on the boys and can beat them. Program chalk has won 8 of 12 at the Big M and looks to be a major player once again.
Race 11
1-Shartin N (9/5)-Horse of the Year honors is hers to lose and a win here should seal the deal. If fires her best shot and avoids a poor trip it's probably picture time again.
7-Caviart Ally (7/2)-This is a fine mare who unfortunately has had to bump heads with Shartin but has beaten her twice. The post draw doesn't help her chances but still figures to have the best shot of an upset.
My Ticket
Race 8) 1,5,6,7
Race 9) 3,4,5,6
Race 10) 1,5
Race 11) 1,7
Total Ticket Cost) $32 for 0.50
Check me out on Twitter, @AlCimaglia