Pick Pony Mini Tip Sheet for Churchill Downs – Racing News and Analysis for June 27, 2026


Get the full Handicapper Report, AI picks, expert analysis, and more with a Pick Pony subscription!

 

Pick Pony Condensed Report — Churchill Downs | June 27, 2026

Wet main track expected (80% rain chance); speed-favoring bias on dirt, stamina premium on turf if ground softens. Brian Lynch barn hot all meet. Watch late scratches on turf races.

Race 1

Powerline (11) is the obvious top choice with strong barn confidence and a clean outside trip in a speed-biased sprint. Antivenom (5) and Salahudin (3) are the main alternatives with quality connections and good posts. Bet On Silver (2) is worth a look underneath at 20-1 if pace collapses.

Race 2

Direct Strike (5) looks ready to graduate at 1-1 in a thin field where his stalking style suits the wet track perfectly. Preside (4) and Sassmaster (8) are the primary threats. Our Forefathers (10) can sneak into trifecta spots late.

Race 3

Tagermeen (10) gets the nod at 2-1 as an efficient tactical type suited to the seven-furlong bias. Campobasso (9) and Big Jake (11) are both live Baffert runners who must be included in all exotics. Market Runner (7) is the most interesting alternative if the top speeds overdo it.

Race 4

Final Story (7) is the clear key at 1-1, bringing allowance-level class and a strong trainer-jockey combo ideal for a wet one-turn route. Blackout Time (8) and Non Conforming (2) are the main dangers. Zeus's Echo (3) and Steel (4) offer deep trifecta value at big prices.

Race 5

Vive Veuve (9) is the top selection in the Anchorage Stakes, with a tactical style and connections that thrive in long turf routes, especially on softened ground. Pin Up Betty (8) and Warming (1) are strong secondary choices. Settling Storm (4) and Footnote (7) are deep longshots worth small superfecta coverage if the race becomes a stamina test.

Race 6

Bring The Smoke (8) gets the top spot based on a favorable outside draw and tactical speed that suits the seven-furlong bias on a wet track. Money Supply (4) and Keep It Easy (9) are the primary threats. Fort Sam (12) at 20-1 is the most interesting longshot for trifecta bottoms.

Race 7

Immersive (3) is the value play in the Fleur de Lis, capable of turning the tables on Splendora (1) with the right pace setup and trip. Shred The Gnar (5) brings hot barn form and must be respected as a co-top selection. Regaled (2) is the only realistic longshot in this five-horse field.

Race 8

Alpyland (6) is the top choice in the American Derby, with a clean outside post and a tactical profile suited to turf routes. Brave Force (9) and Immortalised (1) are strong alternatives, and Thousandsticks (4) from the hot Lynch barn is worth including in all exotics. Prepped (2) rounds out the key group.

Race 9

Cornucopian (2) is the speed to beat in the Bango Stakes, with Baffert class and front-running ability that can be lethal on a wet track. Extra Anejo (5) is the top-quality threat stalking just behind, while Harrodsburg (3) is the standout wet-track longshot specifically flagged for rainy conditions and worth a serious look at a double-digit price.

Before wagering, check the Latest Race Scratches, Changes, and Conditions post for any last-minute scratches or race changes.


Unlock the full Handicapper Report and enjoy all Pick Pony membership perks!

Comments

No comments yet. Why don’t you start the discussion?

Talkback