Handicapping notes and opinions, Thursday at Del Mar …

Race 1 – Leadville (6) can win this turf route for Cal-bred maiden 2yos if he reproduces his runner-up finish two back in a stakes race. But the favorite is not a sure thing. Takeo Squared (4) “has some turfy vibes about him” according to Daily Racing Form workout analyst Toby Turrell, while first-time starter Unusual Rider (3) also is interesting.  He is bred to run long, and working like he wants a route. The last time trainer Mike Puype ran a first-time starter in a turf route (March 2017, Santa Anita) California Journey paid $19.

Race 2 – Impression (5) had a bad trip last out (rushed and wide early, possibly slower rail late). But his maiden win two back was sharp, he worked well since raced, and can outrun his program odds in this starter allowance route. Impression is listed at 6-1, but that price will drop.

Race 4 – Favorites won the last four turf races at a mile and a sixteenth, a streak Souter (8) is likely to extend if he repeats his highly rated second at this starter allowance level. Souter is this handicapper’s “best bet” (most probable winner), but 15-1 outsider Taste’s Legend (3) is interesting. His recent races are okay, he rationed his speed last time and finished with run. Bombs away? Maybe. Include in exacta and/or trifecta? Definitely.

Race 5 – Tapalita (2) on the lead, or Crackling Bread (1) from behind? Looks like one or the other in this sprint for maiden-20 fillies and mares.

Race 6 – Jerry Hollendorfer started seven favorites this meet: six wins, one second. Hollendorfer starts class-drop favorite Plastered (5) in this $16k claiming route for fillies and mares. Does she “have to” win? She does not. Ipray (6) and If You Like It (2) both are sharp, and moving up the ladder.

Race 7 – This N3X turf route includes legit favorite Camino Del Paraiso (5) and DRF “horse to watch” Law Abidin Citizen (3). The latter steadied and lost his action and position at the quarter pole last time, re-rallied and finished with run. That was a sprint, his ability to stay a route is uncertain. At 8-1, Law Abidin Citizen might be a worth a shot.

First post for the eight-race card, 2 p.m.