The Los Angeles Dodgers begin their 2018 season Thursday, opening day at Chavez Ravine.  Due to noon post time at Santa Anita, the races will be finished before Clayton Kershaw throws his first pitch at 4:10. Meantime, preview of Thursday at Santa Anita …

Race 1 – The profile shifted at a mile and an eighth on turf; speed is no longer a liability. Two of the last five were won by the pacesetter. This is key, because front-runner Gosilently (2) looks like the most probable winner on the card. Catch him if you can.

Race 2 – Surprised at the morning-line odds of top choice Sweet Treat (7) in this maiden-20 sprint. She is listed at 7-5, which seems short.  To win the sprint, she will have to catch likely pacesetter Blame the Weather (2).

Race 3 – Only seven entered this $25k claiming sprint, but it is a deep “seven-pack.” This handicapper took front-runner Papa Turf (6), one of many with a shot. Street Vision (7) won at this level last out; route-to-sprint Howdy (3) has an upset chance. Pick five bettors will consider “all.”

Race 4 – Trainer Phil D’Amato, 9-for-33 in March, has the aces in this allowance turf mile. He starts class-drop favorite Isotherm (8) and sharp-working comebacker Kenjisstorm (5). The only trainer any hotter this month is 10-for-27 Bob Baffert.

Race 6 – Speaking of Baffert, slow-developing Longden (6) is favored in this maiden route for 3yos. With the scratch of Jimmy Chila, Longden might be the controlling speed. The high-figure starter is Brian Koriner-trained Route Six Six (4).  

Race 7 – Cognitive (1) is believed to be a better 3yo filly than her last-start misfire, she can make amends in this N1X sprint. Her rivals are Best of Me (6) and Well Hello (5). Both won first time out, on the same card. Best of Me won in 1:03.92; Well Hello won in 1:04.88. Just saying.

First post, 12 noon. First pitch, 4:10.