The fields for today’s three prep races are like NBA All-star weekend with the Futures, Three-point Contest and Slam dunk all in one. I like the Santa Anita Derby field, but I just wish Nyquist was in it rather than opting for the FLA Derby. In the long-run, however, going to Gulfstream was probably the best decision Doug could have made.
The average Beyer for the winner of this race is 103 and none of them have done it. Possible wet track today?
#2 Exaggerator……Oh so close, but no Cigar, he seems to have been relegated to a bit of an underling status regressing some last time from a 98 to a 96…..not fodder for a 103, on paper, but improvement might do it. He ran into the buzz saw called Danzig Candy in the San Felipe, got bumped, then drifted to finish third to the winner and Mor Spirit. Kent D rides for his trainer-bro Keith. Today is when he needs the breakout, if he’s going anywhere. Also needs to overcome the past trouble.
#3 Danzig Candy….I nearly swallowed my ulcer medication watching this guy’s performance in the San Felipe. Holy Schnikees! His steady improve and 100 Beyer last out tees it up for him to win at 9-5 ML, but the boy will be challenged by other early run in the form of Iron Rob and Smoky Image, in all likelihood. We will find out how good he is today with the stretch to 1-1/8 miles.
#4 Mor Spirit…..I was sooooo disappointed in his San Felipe despite the great job by Danzing Candy. Notes say, he “Pulled, steady at 6-1/2,” which contributed to the loss. Even at that, he improved to a 97 Beyer, which sets him up for run here—assuming he stays whole down the track. Drf notes that, “he reminded you of Baffert’s Real Quiet.” Real Quiet is one of my all-time favorites. While I won’t dismiss Drf’s comment, comparing Mor Spirit to Real Quiet right now is like matching Mark Sanchez to Tom Brady. Gary Stevens will need to me much the man today, but I love the colt’s chances.
Mikey, 
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