Handicapping notes, Friday at Santa Anita …

Race 1 – Screenshot (3) finally stretches out in this maiden turf mile.  She wants to route, and is worth backing at 4-1. Stradella Road (2) figures for a great trip sitting second behind the speed. As for favorite She Be Striking (6), this handicapper is neither a fan nor a critic of the only 4yo in this maiden field. Just this – she seems an underlay at 3-1.

Race 2 – Is comeback favorite Quick Finish (5) ready for his first start in seven months? Reports are yes, he is ready to deliver as the favorite in this five-runner sprint race.

Race 3 – Second leg of Stronach 5; see related DRF Live post (https://bit.ly/2SiSfpg).

Race 5 – Palladium (2) is the most probable winner of this starter allowance for 2yos, but deep closers have struggled this fall at a mile on dirt – 17 of 20 were won by a horse positioned 1-2-3. In a race like this, sometimes the best bet is no bet.

Race 6 – Extreme Heat (3) is listed at the surprisingly high price of 3-1 in this N2L claiming turf mile. Expect that price to drop below 2-1, and expect him to win dropping in class and making his first start for owner-trainer Ed Freeman. On paper, a standout.

Race 8 – Oscar Dominguez (6) ran the final three furlongs in 34.51 seconds last out, winning a $50k claiming turf route; expect him to go favored in this N2X. Well Developed (7) is the program favorite, and this handicapper’s top choice, but not sure if a mile and one quarter is within reach.

First post Friday, 1 p.m.