the 2nd betting choice in the Kentucky Derby had a very rough trip from far outside post, rallied well late with inside trip to finish 4th, has a victory here over Big Sandy in maiden breaker last Fall going a mile, this grinder could pull the upset if he reproduces his Wood Memorial effort.
California Chrome (#2) Espinoza / Sherman (3-5)
trying to become the 12th Triple Crown winner in 95 years, nothing but perfect in his graded stakes this year and especially his last two, we've been down this road many times before and disappointed, I won't jinx him by picking him "on top" BUT would be very happy to see history made in person!
Ride On Curlin (#5) Velazquez / Gowan (12-1)
rallied late in the Preakness BUT was not catching the winner as this son of Curlin continues to show his consistency this year along the Triple Crown trail, ran an even 3rd here last Fall in the Champagne Stakes, doubt he can turn the tables on California Chrome and win here, but figures in the mix again, gets seventh different jock in 11 career starts.
Tonalist (#11) Rosario / Clement (8-1)
winner of the Peter Pan Stakes (prep for this) on a sloppy sealed track, well thought of early this spring in Florida but came up with a few issues preventing him from making the Derby, could show speed from far outside post, always like his trainer BUT not quite as high on him!
Samraat (#7) Jose Ortiz / Violette (20-1)
had a very good effort in the Kentucky Derby pressing the pace and fading to 5th late, not sure if he wants anything to do with this marathon distance BUT may be in the mix late with a stalking trip, a live longshot that was also a winner over the track last year.
General A Rod (#10) Napravnik / Maker (20-1)
ran an even race in the Preakness but with no real impact, late entrant to the race just within the last week, one of three that has danced all the Triple Crown races, can't see him be a factor today either.
Commissioner (#8) Castellano / Pletcher (20-1)
held 2nd last time out in the Peter Pan Stakes, has yet to notch a graded stakes victory in his career, maybe a dedication longshot play in honor of the late Commissioner of Montgomery County DSS and fellow horse player; Bill Cranker, rest in peace my friend.
Commanding Curve (#4) Bridgmohan / Stewart (15-1)
came flying from the back of the pack to get the runner-up spot in the Kentucky Derby at 37-1, these deep closer types don't fair well going a mile & a half distance, could clunk up for a piece.
Medal Count (#1) Albarado / Romans (20-1)
only claim to fame on a natural dirt course was a off-the-turf maiden win in his debut at Ellis Park, not quite sure why he is here?
Matterhorn (#3) Bravo / Pletcher (30-1)
no factor 4th in the Peter Pan, no factor today either in this grade I event.
Matuszak (#6) Smith / Mott (30-1)
only victory was in maiden debut in off-the-turf race, maybe Mott should try him on the weeds
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