While there are many contenders in this race, few really interest me as wagering prospects. Cookie Crisp (2) has been in reasonably strong form, but he should have won last time against a weaker field. Shortlist (9) drops out of a tougher spot and gets back to the right distance, but he clearly does not have a strong will to win. Cumberland River (1) interests me a bit because his lone turf race came in his career debut, and he wasn’t quite prepared for a top effort that day. This is clearly a move of desperation, but I think he’s one you have to use.

I won’t be surprised if there’s a wacky result in this race, which is why I’m making a case for longshot Souper Platinum (11). I know he looks way too slow, but I think we’re going to see an improved effort out of him. His maiden win came sprinting on a synthetic surface, and he ran well that day, indicating that he actually has a little ability. He returned from the layoff as a gelding last time and ran what was easily the best turf race of his career, albeit against a weaker field. That race was run over a “good” turf course that was playing pretty slowly. It’s notable that his only other turf race also was run over a course rated “good,” yet that one was actually a total bog. Therefore, it’s forgivable that he didn’t handle it. I think it’s interesting that Michael Trombetta is bringing this horse to New York and running him in such a tough spot after protecting him last time. He’s bred to be a decent turf horse since his dam was a graded stakes winner on this surface. I know this pick is a bit of a reach, but I think there are some signals pointing in this direction today.

THE PLAY

Win/Place: 11
Exacta Key Box: 11 with 1,2,4,8,9,13