The Meadowlands has 14 races scheduled with the 0.50 Early Pick 4 starting in Race 6. That sequence has a $50,000 guaranteed pool with a 15% takeout, and it will be my focus.

On Friday, Dexter Dunn had a huge night winning 7 of 14 races. Marcus Melander led the trainers with two trips to the winner's circle.

Comments and selections below are based on a fast track.

Race 6

1-Machnhope (6-1)-The last line looks worse than it was, may not have been in A+ form but couldn't make up ground even with a 53.4 back half. Comes right back, likes to race near the top of the stack and this post draw helps. Should be in the hunt throughout and could be a player at a nice price.
2-Lyons Sentinel (5/2)-Raced gamely but couldn't catch #4 in last as Bartlett probably stole a couple of quarters. Looks like a major threat and could end up in the pocket. The concern would be if breaks 3rd and has to come 1st over, but still best to respect.
4-Racine Bell (3-1)-Nice drive by Bartlett last week and draws the same post. Has hit the board in 3 of 4 starts at the Big M with 1 picture and with another sharp steer this mare could get on a winning streak.
5-Peaky Sneaky (10-1)-Tough race but this Takter trainee could be ready to step forward. The last 2 starts have been the best since arriving in town. The pace could be hot so Gingras could stalk and roll by down the lane at a price.

Race 7

6-South Beach Star (3-1)-Winner of 3 straight and 5 of 8 in 2021 will face his toughest test this year. But will give the benefit of the doubt he can make it 4 straight pictures. Has enough gate speed to be driven aggressively and be in striking range turning for home.
7-Summa Cum Laude (9/2)-Makes the 3rd start this year but qualified on Lasix on 6-5 in a 149.2 mile with a .26 last quarter. Has won 4 of 5 at M1 and could be sitting on a big try at what should be a square price.
8-Mullinax (15-1)-Cashed a 3rd place check at Buffalo on 6-9 and finished behind #2. That start followed a sick scratch and the previous race was back on 5-22. This will be the 4th start on Lasix and if Gingras keeps him close this colt could fly home.

Race 8

6-Test Of Faith (2-1)-Pelling trainee is 9 of 10 lifetime and won coming off the bench at Stga on 6-2 by >5 lengths without breaking a sweat. This is a very talented 3-year-old filly, and she would have to be off her game or get a brutal trip to not beat this field. Can't see either happening tonight.

Race 9

1-Captain Barbossa (3-1)-The Captain has started this year in fine fashion winning 3 of 5 at M1. Comes off the fastest mile this year (147.1) with Dunn between the pipes and he is back again. May not get on the point but has a pilot who will work a smooth trip and look to take another picture.
2-Ruthless Hanover (4-1)-Winner of 2 straight to start the campaign and then despite a 25.4 last quarter couldn't survive the challenge from #12. Winner in 5 of 7 Big M races could make the most of the post draw edge, then take control early on and not look back.

My Ticket

Race 6) 1,2,4,5

Race 7) 6,7,8

Race 8) 6

Race 9) 1,2

Total Ticket Cost) $12 for $0.50

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