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Del Mar Racetrack – Pick Pony Handicapper Report & Tip Sheet – News and Analysis for the August 30, 2026 card

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Del Mar Race Day Overview — Sunday, August 30, 2026

Sunday's card at Del Mar closes out the final weekend of August with a 10-race program that follows one of the biggest Saturdays on the national calendar. Travers Day at Saratoga and a packed Del Mar stakes afternoon now give way to a Sunday card that, while lacking Grade 1 prestige, offers genuine wagering value across multiple surfaces and distance configurations. The card spans dirt sprints, turf routes, maiden events, and claiming races across a wide purse range from $32,000 to $150,000, with the Grade 3 Terry Pine Stakes in Race 7 serving as the clear marquee event.

The Terry Pine (Race 7) goes 1 1/16 miles on dirt for fillies and mares and carries a $150,000 purse. Baffert-trained Rabeeba (POST 3) draws plenty of attention as the morning-line favorite at 2-1, while She's No Quant (POST 2) and Mohaven (POST 5) headline the rest of a compact but competitive field. The grass races — Races 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 — will be closely watched given the condition of the Jimmy Durante turf course following the prior day's activity, including the Grade 2 Del Mar Handicap.

On the backside, trainer Librado Barocio's 45-day suspension (effective after an April search at Santa Anita) remains the most notable disciplinary story of the local meet, though none of his horses appear on today's card. KAS Stables and John Sadler's Flightline colt Inshallah made a big impression in his debut two weeks ago, and that barn is active again this week — Sadler has multiple entries across Sunday's card including Liberation (POST 2, Race 4), Gazon (POST 7, Race 6), The Goat (POST 5, Race 9), Indispensable (POST 8, Race 9), and Midway Lane (POST 1, Race 10).

The closing days of the Del Mar meet are historically competitive as stables point for final prep races before the fall campaign and Breeders' Cup season begins to crystallize. Connections who picked up points or purses on Saturday's Pat O'Brien and Del Mar Handicap cards will look to build momentum, while others seek condition-book spots before the circuit shifts to Santa Anita.

Weather and Track Conditions

Del Mar's late August weather pattern is characteristically stable. Coastal fog burns off by mid-morning most days, giving way to mild afternoon temperatures typically in the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit at post time, with light onshore breezes off the Pacific. For August 30, 2026, conditions are expected to follow the standard Southern California late-summer profile with no precipitation anticipated and partly cloudy skies that should produce a comfortable racing environment.

The main track is expected to be listed as fast following normal overnight maintenance. No rain has affected the Southern California coast in recent weeks. The Jimmy Durante turf course hosted the Grade 2 Del Mar Handicap on Saturday and will have had overnight grooming ahead of Sunday's program. The turf is expected to be listed as firm or good-to-firm, which historically at Del Mar plays fairly even, though closers with tactical speed tend to thrive on a firm course at the 1 1/16-mile and 1 3/8-mile distances.

The dirt main track at Del Mar has shown a general trend this meet of favoring horses with early speed and the rail, particularly in sprints, though the bias has not been extreme. In route races, stalkers who can track a contested pace and move three-wide into the turn have also been rewarded. Any significant change in track conditions will be noted by the starter's crew and reflected in morning scratches, none of which had been officially posted at the time of this report.

Track Bias and Post Position Analysis

Del Mar's main track has historically exhibited a modest speed bias in sprints, with horses that clear early and secure the rail or a two-path position consistently overperforming. This has been amplified in the latter half of the summer meet as the strip firms up. Inside posts (1 through 3) have a slight statistical edge in dirt sprints at six furlongs, though quality of horse matters more than post in routes.

On the turf, Del Mar's Jimmy Durante course plays genuinely fair across post positions in routes, though outside posts beyond 8 can require riders to make decisions about whether to work forward early or settle and make a wide move late. Given that Sunday features multiple 11-furlong turf routes and one sprint turf race (Race 6), jockeys aboard horses from posts 9 through 13 in the turf routes will need to manage position carefully.

In the dirt sprints (Race 1 at 1 1/16 miles, Race 3 at one mile, Race 5 at one mile, and Race 9 at one mile), inside to middle posts are preferred. The Grade 3 Terry Pine in Race 7 at 1 1/16 miles on dirt favors horses that can get a clean trip from the inside or mid-pack, as the stretch run at Del Mar rewards horses who have been conserved through the first six furlongs.

Race-by-Race Analysis

RACE 1 — Post 5:00 PM — 1 1/16 Miles | Dirt | Open | Optional Claiming $50,000 | Both Sexes, Ungraded | Purse $41,000

Pace Analysis

This one-mile-and-a-sixteenth optional claimer on the dirt opens the card and sets up as a race with a clear pace scenario. Howie's Law (POST 1) is the heavy morning-line favorite at 1-1 and projects as the likely front-runner or pace-presser out of the rail post. Fumano's Magic (POST 5) figures to have some early foot as well. The key question is whether anyone challenges Howie's Law (POST 1) for the lead through an honest pace, or whether he is allowed to soft-pedal through the early fractions and steal the race. In a small, six-horse field, pace scenarios simplify quickly — if Howie's Law (POST 1) controls things on his own terms, he becomes extremely dangerous at odds that already suggest heavy favoritism.

Key Contenders

Howie's Law (POST 1) draws the rail post under trainer Doug O'Neill and jockey E. Jaramillo, which is as straightforward a trainer-jockey combination as Del Mar offers this meet. O'Neill has been among the more active trainers at the summer stand, and Jaramillo has been consistently in the money. The 1-1 morning line is steep but reflects genuine dominance potential. If this horse has earned his way to the top of an optional-claimer condition at this price, the rail in a small field is a luxury.

Kid Charlemagne (POST 3) at 4-1 with Sean Williams/Juan J. Hernandez is the most likely challenger. Hernandez has been one of the busiest riders on the card and brings strong local numbers to this assignment. Williams is a quiet but effective conditioner who spots horses well in these mid-level optional claiming events. A horse positioned second or third early could be dangerous if Howie's Law (POST 1) weakens.

Secondary Choices

Fumano's Magic (POST 5) at 5-1 with trainer Val Brinkerhoff and jockey Kyle Frey could factor if he gets a decent early position. Brinkerhoff is a Southern California stalwart who competes effectively at this claiming level. Frey has been productive this meet. From post 5 in a six-horse field there is room to work forward, and if Fumano's Magic (POST 5) has been training forwardly, he deserves consideration in exacta coverage.

Cruisin For Cali (POST 2) at 6-1 with Mike Puype and Tiago Pereira draws right outside the favorite. Puype is a capable conditioner at the claiming level and Pereira has been among the sharper riders on the card. Inside posts with early tactical speed are dangerous at Del Mar on dirt.

Longshots

Letmein (POST 4) at 8-1 for trainer Mark Glatt and Abel Lezcano is worth a look in the exotics. Glatt operates at multiple levels and is capable of putting together a fit horse at any price point. Lezcano has Del Mar experience.

Here's Some More (POST 6) at 12-1 with Michael W. McCarthy and Kazushi Kimura is the widest post in the field and draws the longest morning-line price among the non-contenders. McCarthy is a strong trainer overall but the outside post in a six-horse sprint-route at this level is a handicapping negative.

Selections

Win: Howie's Law (POST 1) Place: Kid Charlemagne (POST 3) Show: Fumano's Magic (POST 5)

Betting Strategy: Back Howie's Law (POST 1) straight at whatever odds are available, though the 1-1 morning line will likely compress further. The value play is the exacta Howie's Law (POST 1) over Kid Charlemagne (POST 3) and Fumano's Magic (POST 5). A small trifecta box of posts 1-3-5 at minimal cost gives exposure without significant outlay.

RACE 2 — Post 5:34 PM — 1 1/16 Miles | Turf | Straight Course | Maiden Special Weight | All Ages Open | Purse $80,000

Pace Analysis

Thirteen horses enter this maiden special weight on the straight turf course, the longest field on the card. The straight course at Del Mar is a unique entity — it eliminates the advantage of early speed negotiating turns and rewards horses with raw, sustained acceleration. From a pace standpoint, the race figures to develop with multiple horses pressing early on the straight, and the key is finding a horse who can maintain top gear for the full distance. Post position bias on the Del Mar straight course is genuinely meaningful — horses in the middle of the course (posts 4 through 8) have a structural advantage over those on the extreme outside, where ground loss on a perfectly flat track can accumulate into meaningful lost lengths.

Key Contenders

Chiseled In Stone (POST 3) opens at 2-1 morning line under trainer Steve Knapp and jockey Armando Ayuso. Knapp is well-represented on Sunday's card and has a consistent record in turf maiden events at Del Mar. At 2-1 in a 13-horse field on the straight course, there is a distinct possibility that sharp money has been directing this horse's attention toward this spot for some time. Ayuso has been reliable this meet and the three-post gives a clean middle-of-the-course position without the rail-jamming concerns of post 1.

First Time Listing (POST 1) at 4-1 with Simon Callaghan and Antonio Fresu is another strong candidate. Callaghan has a very good record with turf maidens and is adept at sourcing horses with European-influenced pedigrees for grass performances. Fresu has been steady and capable. The concern is post 1 on the straight course — any contact or drift early can compromise the entire trip. Still, the 4-1 morning line in a field this large represents legitimate market confidence.

Secondary Choices

Bel Air Blintzcess (POST 2) at 5-1 with Mark Glatt and E. Jaramillo. Glatt is one of the more sophisticated trainers in Southern California when it comes to placing turf maidens, and Jaramillo has been active and effective. Post 2 is manageable on the straight course.

Bottled In Bond (POST 7) at 6-1 with Carla Gaines and Hector Isaac Berrios. Gaines has two horses in this race — Lil Prince Cairo (POST 5) at 8-1 and Bottled In Bond (POST 7) at 6-1. When a trainer runs two horses in the same maiden race, attention tends to go to the one with the better odds, suggesting the stable may prefer Bottled In Bond (POST 7). The 7-post is workable on the straight.

Vern Gosdin (POST 13) at 6-1 for Steve Knapp and Armando Ayuso presents a compelling situation — Knapp has two runners here, with Chiseled In Stone (POST 3) at 2-1 the clear stable favorite. Vern Gosdin (POST 13) at 6-1 on the outside post of a straight course is a notable logistical challenge, though Knapp may be maneuvering two horses in different segments of the market deliberately. Worth monitoring for morning-line movement that might suggest a change in stable priority.

Longshots

Red Raider (POST 8) at 8-1 for Craig Lewis and Abel Lezcano has a workable post and is worth including in wider exotics given Lewis's occasionally sharp performances at this level.

Lil Prince Cairo (POST 5) at 8-1 is the second Gaines entry and, as noted, appears to be the secondary stable choice behind Bottled In Bond (POST 7). The 5-post is excellent on the straight.

Hallagrey (POST 6) at 12-1 for Mike Puype and Drayden Van Dyke should not be dismissed entirely — Van Dyke is one of the sharper tactical riders on the Southern California circuit, and a 12-1 shot with his book is occasionally live.

Smoke Rider (POST 4) at 12-1 for Adan Farias and Francisco Monroy occupies a solid post position on the straight and cannot be completely ignored in a wide-open maiden at this price.

Angels Revenge (POST 9), High Hull Gill (POST 10), Tapit's Ghost (POST 11), and City Of Forza (POST 12) all draw double-digit odds in the 20-1 to 30-1 range. Edwin G. Alvarez trains the final three of that group. Triple-trainer entries in maiden fields tend to reflect strategic positioning rather than genuine competitive confidence in each individual, and these three are best treated as longshot exotics at best.

Angels Revenge (POST 9) at 20-1 for Angel Vega and J. Bravo is similarly distant from the pace scenario needed to threaten.

Selections

Win: Chiseled In Stone (POST 3) Place: First Time Listing (POST 1) Show: Bel Air Blintzcess (POST 2)

Betting Strategy: Chiseled In Stone (POST 3) is the most straightforward single in this race, but at 2-1 in a 13-horse field, the value is thin to bet heavily. The exactas using Chiseled In Stone (POST 3) over First Time Listing (POST 1), Bel Air Blintzcess (POST 2), and Bottled In Bond (POST 7) offer more useful return. A trifecta key using Chiseled In Stone (POST 3) on top with combinations of the secondary selections and the Van Dyke-ridden Hallagrey (POST 6) as a price bomb underneath is worth a small investment.

RACE 3 — Post 6:08 PM — One Mile | Dirt | Claiming $12,500 | Both Sexes Ungraded | Purse $32,000

Pace Analysis

The $12,500 claiming mile on dirt is the cheapest race on the card and figures to draw a contested pace. Miz Clubcali (POST 8) at 3-1 is the morning-line favorite and will likely be rated off early fractions. Ro Town (POST 6) at 4-1 has early speed potential. If this shapes up as a contested pace, closers and stalkers have an opportunity in the stretch at Del Mar's reasonable stretch run. The mile on dirt at Del Mar is an honest test — horses cannot steal it on the front end without facing consequences if challenged through decent early fractions.

Key Contenders

Miz Clubcali (POST 8) at 3-1 is the most-bet horse on paper under trainer Ian Kruljac and jockey Tiago Pereira. Kruljac is a hands-on trainer who competes well at the claiming level, and Pereira has been one of the more productive riders on the Sunday card. Post 8 in a nine-horse field at one mile is manageable — there is enough room to settle and make a middle-move if the fractions are honest. At 3-1 in a $12,500 claimer, this horse has been spotted in a spot where the connections believe she can win.

Ro Town (POST 6) at 4-1 for Manuel Badilla and Kyle Frey. Badilla is a Del Mar claiming specialist who knows how to prepare a horse for a sprint-route on dirt. Frey has been reliable when given horses with early tactical speed. If Ro Town (POST 6) gets loose on the front end, he could be very difficult to catch.

Secondary Choices

Lady Gregory (POST 3) at 5-1 for Steve Knapp and E. Jaramillo. Knapp is everywhere on this card and Lady Gregory (POST 3) has a comfortable post with a competent pilot. The 5-1 morning line suggests the market sees her as a genuine threat.

Chasing Kat (POST 1) at 5-1 for George Papaprodromou and Roxane Liegeois. The rail at one mile on dirt at Del Mar is not a disaster, but it requires a clean break. Papaprodromou can be sharp with claimers, and Liegeois is a capable rider who holds her own at the claiming level.

Harney Lane (POST 4) at 6-1 for Antonio C. Garcia and Ricardo Gonzalez rounds out the secondary tier. Garcia is a mid-level trainer who spots horses effectively, and Gonzalez has Del Mar exposure.

Longshots

Danzing Flyer (POST 2) at 8-1 for Paul Aguirre and J. Bravo. Bravo brings legitimate credentials to a claiming race, and Aguirre occasionally surfaces horses at prices. Worth including in wide trifecta coverage.

Fun To Run (POST 7) at 12-1 for Ruben Gomez and T.C. Baze. Baze is a veteran who understands this track, and at 12-1 in a weak claiming field, any bounce in form makes Fun To Run (POST 7) dangerous in multi-race exotics.

Giant Kid (POST 9) at 12-1 for Bill McLean and Armando Ayuso. Outside post in a nine-horse field at the cheapest level is a challenge, but Ayuso has been productive this meet.

Sexy Blue (POST 5) at 20-1 for Angel Vega and Adrian Escobedo is a significant long-shot who would need significant improvement over past performances to threaten here.

Selections

Win: Miz Clubcali (POST 8) Place: Ro Town (POST 6) Show: Lady Gregory (POST 3)

Betting Strategy: The exacta of Miz Clubcali (POST 8) over Ro Town (POST 6) is the clearest play at a price that should pay reasonably at 3-1 and 4-1 morning lines. A trifecta using those two on top and bottom with Lady Gregory (POST 3) and Chasing Kat (POST 1) is the logical structure. At the $12,500 level, form reversals are common, so keeping trifecta investments modest is advisable.

RACE 4 — Post 6:38 PM — 1 3/8 Miles | Turf | Allowance Optional Claiming $80,000 non-winners once | Both Sexes Open | Purse $81,000

Pace Analysis

The 1 3/8-mile turf route is one of the most demanding distance-surface combinations on the Del Mar card. At this level — allowance optional claiming for horses that have not won once — the field is a mix of lightly-raced horses with upside and seasoned horses looking to break through. Eight runners make up a field that should produce an honest pace across eleven furlongs. Cortina D'amprezzo (POST 4) at 3-1 and Liberation (POST 2) at 4-1 figure to shape the race, and how the fractions develop through the long backstretch will determine whether closers get a shot in the final furlong and a half.

Key Contenders

Cortina D'amprezzo (POST 4) at 3-1 for Philip D'Amato and Antonio Fresu. D'Amato is consistently one of the sharpest turf trainers in Southern California, with a record in routes on the Jimmy Durante course that is among the best in the barn area. Cortina D'amprezzo (POST 4) draws post 4 in an eight-horse field, which is the most comfortable middle ground at this distance. Fresu has been solid this meet. When D'Amato puts a horse at 3-1 morning line in a turf optional claimer, the market is typically right.

Liberation (POST 2) at 4-1 for John Sadler and Juan J. Hernandez. Sadler's operation is firing on multiple fronts this week following the high-profile Inshallah debut and the trainer's consistent presence in graded company. Liberation (POST 2) draws post 2 on the inside, which in a 1 3/8-mile turf route is a legitimate advantage — the horse can save ground on both turns and be in position when it counts. Hernandez has been the busiest jockey on Sunday's card and is clearly getting quality mounts.

Secondary Choices

Run With Liberty (POST 6) at 4-1 for Jeff Mullins and Kyle Frey. Mullins is a trainer who does well in turf routes and has consistently produced horses capable of winning at the allowance level. Struck By Her (POST 7) at 6-1 for Philip D'Amato and J. Bravo. D'Amato runs two in this race, which puts attention on which is the stable first choice. At 3-1 versus 6-1, the market clearly tilts toward Cortina D'amprezzo (POST 4), but D'Amato trainers in tandem cannot be dismissed — Struck By Her (POST 7) at 6-1 with Bravo is a logical secondary exotic target.

Mia Familia (POST 8) at 5-1 for Jose Francisco D'Angelo and E. Jaramillo. From the outside post in this field, Mia Familia (POST 8) will need a clean break to avoid early trouble, and Jaramillo will need to manage position carefully in the early stages of a long turf route. At 5-1 morning line, some handicappers find value here.

Longshots

Full Moon Tonight (POST 1) at 8-1 for Simon Callaghan and Hector Isaac Berrios draws the rail in a 1 3/8-mile turf route — a historically advantageous post. Callaghan does solid work with turf horses and Full Moon Tonight (POST 1) at 8-1 could be a live longshot if this horse has been working well.

Miss Donna (POST 3) at 15-1 for Michael W. McCarthy and Kazushi Kimura is a significant underlay relative to her connections. McCarthy is a major trainer and Kimura is capable. At 15-1, however, this horse faces a significant class and form challenge to threaten Cortina D'amprezzo (POST 4) and Liberation (POST 2).

Waiting For You (POST 5) at 10-1 for Leonard Powell and Armando Ayuso. Powell appears multiple times on Sunday's card and has proven capable of winning at this level. At 10-1, Waiting For You (POST 5) is the kind of horse who could sneak into the trifecta at a price.

Selections

Win: Cortina D'amprezzo (POST 4) Place: Liberation (POST 2) Show: Run With Liberty (POST 6)

Betting Strategy: The D'Amato-Fresu combination at 3-1 is the single best play in Race 4. An exacta of Cortina D'amprezzo (POST 4) and Liberation (POST 2) in both directions is reasonable, given that both are legitimate contenders. A trifecta using Cortina D'amprezzo (POST 4) over Liberation (POST 2) with Run With Liberty (POST 6) and Struck By Her (POST 7) covers the most logical outcomes. Include Full Moon Tonight (POST 1) at 8-1 as a price bomb in trifecta third position.

RACE 5 — Post 7:09 PM — One Mile | Dirt | Maiden Special Weight | All Ages Open Fillies | Purse $80,000

Pace Analysis

Ten fillies contest this maiden special weight at one mile on dirt, a field that includes four horses at 4-1 or shorter on the morning line — a highly competitive group for a maiden event. Her Strut (POST 7) and Sono Veloce (POST 8) are co-favorites at 4-1, with Not So Merry Mary (POST 1) and Take Revenge (POST 5) at 5-1. Beautiful Dawn (POST 4) at 6-1 rounds out the top tier. With multiple legitimate early-pace threats in the field, the fractions are likely to be honest through six furlongs, setting up for a genuine stretch battle.

Key Contenders

Her Strut (POST 7) at 4-1 for George Papaprodromou and Antonio Fresu. Papaprodromou is on the board multiple times Sunday and this filly draws a manageable outside post in a ten-horse field. Fresu has been riding well this meet and Papaprodromou is a trainer who can sharpen a filly in a maiden race without overworking her.

Sono Veloce (POST 8) at 4-1 for Brendan W. Galvin and Juan J. Hernandez. Galvin is a capable conditioner for turf horses primarily, but has shown versatility. Sono Veloce (POST 8) at 4-1 with Hernandez aboard from post 8 is a significant market statement — Hernandez is clearly the leading rider on this Sunday card and will be in demand by top connections.

Not So Merry Mary (POST 1) at 5-1 for Tim Yakteen and Kazushi Kimura. Yakteen is an established California trainer with a solid record in maiden events, and Not So Merry Mary (POST 1) draws the rail at one mile on dirt. The rail at Del Mar can be a trap if the pace is slow and horses are wide, but in a maiden sprint-route with a contested pace, a rail horse who breaks cleanly and settles just off the pace can make a devastating late run.

Secondary Choices

Take Revenge (POST 5) at 5-1 for Craig Lewis and E. Jaramillo. From post 5 in the heart of the field, Take Revenge (POST 5) has a clean trip option. Lewis is a capable horseman and Jaramillo has the live book on this Sunday card.

Beautiful Dawn (POST 4) at 6-1 for Aggie Ordonez and Joel Rosario. Rosario is one of the most accomplished riders in American racing and his presence on a 6-1 maiden is always worth flagging. Ordonez has a modest local presence, but Rosario's tactical intelligence makes Beautiful Dawn (POST 4) a genuine threat at a useful price.

Longshots

Sauced Up (POST 3) at 8-1 for Felix Rondan and Alfredo L. Bautista. A mid-field post with moderate odds — worth including in deeper exotic structures.

I'm Smoken Hot (POST 9) at 8-1 for Val Brinkerhoff and T.C. Baze. Baze is a veteran who can produce with horses given the right set-up. At 8-1 this filly could outrun her odds if the field plays into her running style.

Pavular (POST 10) at 12-1 for Antonio C. Garcia and Armando Ayuso. Outside post in a ten-horse maiden — difficult trip scenario, but not impossible in a competitive race where the field spreads out through the first turn.

Runaround Sue (POST 2) at 20-1 for Andy Mathis and Armando Aguilar is a significant long-shot.

Thirsty Elusive (POST 6) at 30-1 for Edwin G. Alvarez and Welfin R. Orantes is the longest shot on the board and can be safely dismissed in all wagering structures.

Selections

Win: Her Strut (POST 7) Place: Sono Veloce (POST 8) Show: Not So Merry Mary (POST 1)

Betting Strategy: This is a competitive maiden that does not have a clear single. Betting a small win parlay between Her Strut (POST 7) and Sono Veloce (POST 8) gives exposure to the two co-favorites. The most profitable angle is targeting Beautiful Dawn (POST 4) at 6-1 with Joel Rosario in an exacta beneath Her Strut (POST 7) and Sono Veloce (POST 8) — the trifecta of those three in the right order pays well and reflects the competitive shape of the race. Include Not So Merry Mary (POST 1) in trifecta structures as the third option.

RACE 6 — Post 7:41 PM — 1 1/16 Miles | Turf | Claiming $32,000 | Both Sexes Ungraded | Purse $50,000

Pace Analysis

Eleven horses go to post in this turf claiming route, headlined by Code Duello (POST 9) at 2-1 on the morning line. The race figures to develop with front-runners establishing position early on the turf, and Code Duello (POST 9) — coming from post 9 — will need to be ridden forward or settle three-wide into contention. Daniel's Magic (POST 4) and Otto The Conqueror (POST 5) figure to be among the horses pressing the pace from the inside. The pace in turf claimers at this distance tends to be moderate, and at Del Mar's firm turf course, the ability to accelerate in the final furlong is often the deciding factor.

Key Contenders

Code Duello (POST 9) at 2-1 for trainer R.B. Hess Jr. and jockey Armando Ayuso. The morning-line favorite is a significant market statement in a field this size — 2-1 in an 11-horse claiming race suggests the horse is significantly outclassing his rivals. Hess is an established trainer at the claiming level and Ayuso has been in demand this Sunday. From post 9, Code Duello (POST 9) will need to travel some ground early to avoid being buried on the outside throughout, but at this level, a superior horse can overcome trip concerns.

Gazon (POST 7) at 6-1 for John Sadler and Joel Rosario. Sadler has been prominent throughout this Sunday card and Gazon (POST 7) with Rosario in the irons is a live secondary choice. Sadler's horses run well fresh and in condition-book spots on turf. Post 7 is manageable in an 11-horse field at this distance.

Secondary Choices

Daniel's Magic (POST 4) at 5-1 for Craig Dollase and Kazushi Kimura. Dollase is a turf specialist who has a solid record with claiming horses at Del Mar. The 4-post in a turf route is excellent, and Kimura has been active on Sunday's card.

Otto The Conqueror (POST 5) at 6-1 for Vladimir Cerin and Juan J. Hernandez. Cerin is a competent conditioner at this level and Hernandez's presence again suggests a mount the connections respect. From post 5 in an 11-horse field, Otto The Conqueror (POST 5) should get a clean trip.

Regal Patriot (POST 11) at 6-1 for Doug O'Neill and E. Jaramillo. The outside post in an 11-horse turf claiming race is a challenge, but O'Neill and Jaramillo combine well, and at 6-1 Regal Patriot (POST 11) is worth including in wide exotic coverage.

Longshots

Gregory's Pride (POST 8) at 8-1 for Philip D'Amato and Antonio Fresu. D'Amato's turf record is superb, and even at 8-1 in a claiming race, his entries deserve respect. Gregory's Pride (POST 8) could outperform his morning-line odds with D'Amato's preparation.

Harcyn (POST 2) at 8-1 for Genaro Vallejo and J. Bravo. Bravo is capable of winning at this level and post 2 on turf is solid. Vallejo is a lower-profile trainer but not without wins at Del Mar.

Agency (POST 1) at 12-1 for Andy Mathis and Drayden Van Dyke. Van Dyke on a 12-1 in a turf claiming route is worth a small win bet — the rider has the tactical intelligence to maximize a horse's trip from the rail, which can be an advantage in longer turf routes if the pace develops outside.

Alphabetical Order (POST 3) at 20-1 for Jesus J. Uranga and Ricardo S. Ramirez is a significant long-shot.

Tygra (POST 6) at 30-1 for Francisco Rodriguez and Francisco Monroy and One Of These Days (POST 10) at 30-1 for Steve Knapp and Armando Aguilar are extreme long-shots in a field where the top contenders are well-established.

Selections

Win: Code Duello (POST 9) Place: Gazon (POST 7) Show: Daniel's Magic (POST 4)

Betting Strategy: Code Duello (POST 9) at 2-1 will be the dominant win bet on this race. The exacta worth targeting is Code Duello (POST 9) over Gazon (POST 7) and Code Duello (POST 9) over Daniel's Magic (POST 4). A trifecta using Code Duello (POST 9) on top with Gazon (POST 7) and Daniel's Magic (POST 4) in the second and third slots, plus Gregory's Pride (POST 8) as a D'Amato price inclusion, is the recommended structure. The Van Dyke/Agency (POST 1) combination at 12-1 is a small win-bet overlay worth $2 straight.

RACE 7 — Post 8:12 PM — 1 1/16 Miles | Dirt | Grade 3 | Terry Pine Stakes | Open Fillies | Purse $150,000

Pace Analysis

The Grade 3 Terry Pine Stakes is the feature of the day and deserves the most thorough analysis. Seven fillies go to post at 1 1/16 miles on the Del Mar main track. Rabeeba (POST 3) at 2-1 is the Baffert morning-line favorite, while She's No Quant (POST 2) at 3-1 and Mohaven (POST 5) at 4-1 are the other primary contenders. With seven horses in the field, pace scenarios are cleaner than in larger fields. Bank Shot (POST 1) and Wolf Hill (POST 7) may go forward early, which could create a legitimate pace for the closers and stalkers to run into.

Key Contenders

Rabeeba (POST 3) at 2-1 for Bob Baffert and Juan J. Hernandez. Baffert is back in Grade 3 company at Del Mar with a filly who has earned her way to this favorite's role. Post 3 in a seven-horse field is ideal — clean break options, easy position to stalk the leader, and the ability to be three-wide into the stretch without losing significant ground. Hernandez has had the book this Sunday and clearly Baffert has given him the plum assignment. In graded stakes company, Baffert's preparation and Hernandez's tactical experience make Rabeeba (POST 3) the most logical single on the card.

She's No Quant (POST 2) at 3-1 for Edward R. Freeman and Antonio Fresu. Freeman has been a consistent presence in graded stakes company at Del Mar and Fresu has been one of the sharpest riders on this card. Post 2 is outstanding for a seven-horse field at 1 1/16 miles. If She's No Quant (POST 2) has a pace figure or recent form line that competes with Rabeeba (POST 3), the 3-1 morning line represents legitimate value.

Secondary Choices

Mohaven (POST 5) at 4-1 for John Sadler and E. Jaramillo. Sadler's operation has been active throughout this card and Mohaven (POST 5) is his stakes entry. Jaramillo has been riding well and at 4-1 in a seven-horse graded stakes, Mohaven (POST 5) is a horse who could steal the race if she runs to the top of her form. Sadler trains well for stakes at Del Mar's summer meet.

Wolf Hill (POST 7) at 8-1 for Leonard Powell and Joel Rosario. Rosario in a graded stakes is a powerful combination regardless of morning-line odds. Powell's 8-1 shot with Rosario in the irons suggests connections believe this filly can run with the favorites. The outside post in a seven-horse field at 1 1/16 miles is manageable at Del Mar, where the run into the first turn is long enough to establish position.

Longshots

Kinzlee'scharisma (POST 6) at 8-1 for Daniel M. Jensen and Tiago Pereira. Jensen is a journeyman who occasionally surfaces a live runner at price. Kinzlee'scharisma (POST 6) at 8-1 is worth a token inclusion in exacta and trifecta coverage.

Channel Place (POST 4) at 12-1 for Doug O'Neill and Kazushi Kimura. O'Neill entering a horse at 12-1 in a graded stakes suggests this is a confidence builder rather than a prime winning opportunity, but O'Neill is capable of springing surprises at price.

Bank Shot (POST 1) at 10-1 for Ryan Hanson and Adrian Escobedo is the rail speed in a seven-horse field. If Bank Shot (POST 1) gets loose on the front end at a slow early pace, the longer morning-line horses could be chasing a lead horse that never gets caught. Include in trifecta coverage as a front-end pace scenario bet.

Selections

Win: Rabeeba (POST 3) Place: She's No Quant (POST 2) Show: Mohaven (POST 5)

Betting Strategy: Rabeeba (POST 3) is the card's premier single bet. Despite the 2-1 morning line, backing the Baffert-Hernandez combination in graded stakes company at Del Mar is historically prudent. The exacta of Rabeeba (POST 3) and She's No Quant (POST 2) in both directions is the core bet. A trifecta keying Rabeeba (POST 3) on top with She's No Quant (POST 2) and Mohaven (POST 5) underneath is the primary structure, with Wolf Hill (POST 7) and Bank Shot (POST 1) included as value third-position alternatives in a secondary trifecta ticket.

RACE 8 — Post 8:43 PM — 1 3/8 Miles | Turf | Maiden Special Weight | Both Sexes Ungraded | Purse $80,000

Pace Analysis

Ten horses compete in this 1 3/8-mile turf maiden, a grueling distance for horses who have never won a race. The pace at eleven furlongs in a maiden turf route tends to be moderate in the early going, as inexperienced horses and cautious riders both tend toward patience. This sets up for a genuine final-furlong sprint among the stalkers and closers, and horses with tactical speed who can quicken in the final stages are prized at this distance. Janz Joy (POST 6) at 4-1 is the morning-line favorite, while Marla Hooch (POST 4), Impressionistic (POST 9), and Zuzu's Classic Gal (POST 7) are clustered at 5-1.

Key Contenders

Janz Joy (POST 6) at 4-1 for Mark Glatt and Abel Lezcano. Glatt is one of the most prolific and well-regarded trainers for turf maidens in Southern California. His record with first-out and lightly-raced turf maidens at Del Mar is consistently above average. Janz Joy (POST 6) draws post 6 in a 10-horse field — a workable middle position in the long straight and turn sections of the course. Lezcano is capable and has Del Mar experience.

Impressionistic (POST 9) at 5-1 for Leonard Powell and Joel Rosario. Rosario on a turf maiden at 5-1 is a live combination. Powell has had activity throughout this card and Impressionistic (POST 9) at this price with this rider from a manageable post position is among the more compelling secondary options in the race.

Secondary Choices

Marla Hooch (POST 4) at 5-1 for Philip D'Amato and Antonio Fresu. D'Amato is Del Mar's premier turf trainer and Marla Hooch (POST 4) gets post 4 in a 10-horse maiden, which is a solid draw. At 5-1 with D'Amato and Fresu, this filly is one of the most dangerous secondary choices on the entire card.

Zuzu's Classic Gal (POST 7) at 5-1 for Mark Glatt and Ricardo Gonzalez. Glatt's second entry in this race — similar to the Race 2 situation, when a trainer runs two horses in a maiden, the market differential tells the story. Janz Joy (POST 6) at 4-1 versus Zuzu's Classic Gal (POST 7) at 5-1 is a very close split, which means Glatt may genuinely believe both can compete. Include Zuzu's Classic Gal (POST 7) in all trifecta coverage as a second Glatt option.

Platinum Groove (POST 5) at 6-1 for Jeff Mullins and Hector Isaac Berrios. Mullins appears multiple times Sunday and this turf maiden entry is worth consideration at 6-1 from a comfortable inside post.

Longshots

Helping Hand (POST 10) at 6-1 for Mike Puype and Kazushi Kimura. From the outside post in a 10-horse turf maiden route, Helping Hand (POST 10) will need a clean break and an aggressive early move to not be parked too wide throughout. At 6-1 with Puype and Kimura, worth a token inclusion.

First Light (POST 1) at 8-1 for Carla Gaines and Cesar Belmont. Post 1 in a 1 3/8-mile turf maiden has some appeal if the horse can secure the rail and save ground. Gaines is a competent conditioner for turf maidens and First Light (POST 1) at 8-1 is worth consideration as a value longshot.

Druliner (POST 8) at 8-1 for Craig Lewis and Juan J. Hernandez. Hernandez has been the busiest rider on Sunday's card, and his presence on an 8-1 maiden is worth flagging — even if this is a lower-priority book than his stakes rides.

Clubhouse Deb (POST 2) at 30-1 for Philip D'Amato and J. Bravo. If D'Amato has two entries and one is at 5-1 and the other is at 30-1, the market has spoken clearly. Clubhouse Deb (POST 2) is unlikely to factor. Unusualexis (POST 3) at 30-1 for Alexis Barba and Kyle Frey is similarly a long-shot in all formats.

Selections

Win: Janz Joy (POST 6) Place: Marla Hooch (POST 4) Show: Impressionistic (POST 9)

Betting Strategy: The Glatt-D'Amato-Powell triangle is the wagering story here. An exacta using Janz Joy (POST 6) and Marla Hooch (POST 4) in both directions should provide a reasonable return. A trifecta key using Janz Joy (POST 6) on top with Marla Hooch (POST 4), Impressionistic (POST 9), and Zuzu's Classic Gal (POST 7) filling out the bottom half is the recommended structure. Use First Light (POST 1) at 8-1 as a price saver in third position.

RACE 9 — Post 9:15 PM — One Mile | Dirt | Allowance Optional Claiming $100,000 | Both Sexes Ungraded | Purse $82,000

Pace Analysis

Nine horses contest this mile on dirt at the allowance optional claiming level, which is quality competition. Privman (POST 7) at 3-1 is the Baffert morning-line favorite, with Mirahmadi (POST 9) at 4-1 as the second Baffert entry. When Baffert saddles two horses in the same allowance race, the dynamics are fascinating — do the horses set pace for each other or does one try to get loose while the other rates? Lyell's Song (POST 6) and The Goat (POST 5) and Indispensable (POST 8) are the principal non-Baffert threats. The pace at one mile on dirt with Baffert horses in the field is likely to be honest — these horses typically race with aggression.

Key Contenders

Privman (POST 7) at 3-1 for Bob Baffert and Juan J. Hernandez. The same Baffert-Hernandez combination from Race 7 returns here in an allowance mile. Privman (POST 7) from the 7-post in a nine-horse field has room to maneuver and Hernandez has the tactical intelligence to navigate a pace scenario that includes his stablemate. At 3-1 in a $100,000 allowance, this horse projects as the class of the field.

Mirahmadi (POST 9) at 4-1 for Bob Baffert and Mike E. Smith. Smith is a Hall of Fame rider and one of the most decorated pilots in racing history. His presence on the second Baffert entry at 4-1 suggests Baffert's operation believes this horse could win with Smith handling the outer path from post 9. When Baffert splits Smith and Hernandez between two horses, neither can be dismissed.

Secondary Choices

Lyell's Song (POST 6) at 5-1 for Mark Glatt and Antonio Fresu. Glatt is well-represented throughout this card and Lyell's Song (POST 6) with Fresu from the 6-post is a legitimate non-Baffert threat. If the two Baffert horses burn each other up, Lyell's Song (POST 6) could be the beneficiary in the stretch.

The Goat (POST 5) at 6-1 for John Sadler and Joel Rosario. Sadler-Rosario is a powerful combination in allowance company on dirt. The Goat (POST 5) from the 5-post with room to stalk the pace is a prime upset candidate if the Baffert horses produce an honest enough pace to flatten each other.

Indispensable (POST 8) at 6-1 for John Sadler and E. Jaramillo. Sadler again with a second entry — Jaramillo on Indispensable (POST 8) at 6-1 from post 8 gives the Sadler barn dual coverage, similar to the Baffert situation. Indispensable (POST 8) at 6-1 with Jaramillo is worth inclusion in exacta and trifecta coverage.

Longshots

Midnight Mammoth (POST 1) at 8-1 for Craig Dollase and T.C. Baze. Rail post at one mile on dirt in a competitive allowance — manageable with a clean break. Dollase and Baze have history together and the 8-1 morning line reflects some market confidence.

Arrowthegreat (POST 4) at 8-1 for Daniel Blacker and Armando Ayuso. A mid-field post and double-digit odds — worth including in trifecta third positions.

War At Sea (POST 3) at 15-1 for Ronald W. Ellis and Kazushi Kimura is a significant price in this allowance company.

Momad (POST 2) at 20-1 for Leonard Powell and Victor Espinoza. Espinoza is a legendary rider and his book is often meaningful — even at 20-1, his presence in the paddock is worth a glance, though the morning-line odds suggest Momad (POST 2) is a significant underdog in this field.

Selections

Win: Privman (POST 7) Place: Mirahmadi (POST 9) Show: The Goat (POST 5)

Betting Strategy: When Baffert runs two horses in an allowance mile, the most common outcome is one of them winning. Back Privman (POST 7) to win and target the exacta of Privman (POST 7) and Mirahmadi (POST 9) in both orders. Include The Goat (POST 5) and Lyell's Song (POST 6) in trifecta structures as the best non-Baffert threats. A trifecta box of Privman (POST 7), Mirahmadi (POST 9), and The Goat (POST 5) is a reasonable six-combination investment.

RACE 10 — Post 9:45 PM — 1 3/8 Miles | Turf | Open | Optional Claiming $50,000 | Both Sexes Ungraded | Purse $47,000

Pace Analysis

The card closes with a 13-horse turf optional claimer at 1 3/8 miles — the largest field of the day and one of the most complex wagering puzzles. Midway Lane (POST 1) at 3-1 is Sadler's morning-line favorite in the rail post, while Call Me Sir (POST 8) at 5-1 is the second public choice. Beyond Stoked (POST 4) at 6-1 and Joejoe Go (POST 10) at 6-1 round out the primary contenders. In a 13-horse turf route, the pace is likely to be stratified — multiple horses pressing or stalking from various posts, with closers and strong finishers threatening from the back third of the field as the extended distance tests stamina.

Key Contenders

Midway Lane (POST 1) at 3-1 for John Sadler and E. Jaramillo. Sadler has multiple entries in the closing races of this card, and Midway Lane (POST 1) draws the rail at 1 3/8 miles on the Jimmy Durante course — historically one of the most coveted posts at this distance. Jaramillo can ride a rail horse expertly, saving ground through both turns while positioning for a late move. Sadler's turf record at Del Mar over the course of his career is outstanding, and the 3-1 morning line reflects justified market support.

Call Me Sir (POST 8) at 5-1 for Mark Glatt and Joel Rosario. Glatt appears repeatedly on this card and Call Me Sir (POST 8) with Rosario from post 8 in a 13-horse field is a significant assignment. Rosario's tactical ability to navigate a large turf field is unmatched among the riders on this card. At 5-1, Call Me Sir (POST 8) offers legitimate value over Midway Lane (POST 1).

Secondary Choices

Beyond Stoked (POST 4) at 6-1 for George Papaprodromou and J. Bravo. Papaprodromou has had a productive Sunday card and Beyond Stoked (POST 4) with Bravo from post 4 is a clean inside draw in a large turf field. Bravo riding a Papaprodromou horse at this distance and price is worth including in all multi-race exotic structures.

Joejoe Go (POST 10) at 6-1 for Christopher Davis and Drayden Van Dyke. Van Dyke is the third appearance of a top-flight rider at a secondary price point on this card. Davis is an increasingly competitive trainer and Joejoe Go (POST 10) at 6-1 with Van Dyke is a legitimate value play in the closing race.

Henry Adams (POST 9) at 8-1 for Steve Knapp and Tiago Pereira. Knapp has been active throughout this card and Henry Adams (POST 9) at 8-1 from post 9 is a double-digit-but-realistic contender in a large field.

Longshots

Burning Rubber (POST 3) at 8-1 for Sean McCarthy and Juan J. Hernandez. Hernandez's fourth or fifth mount of the day at post 9:45 PM — at this stage of a long Sunday card, even the best riders may be fatigued, though Hernandez's consistency makes him relevant on any mount.

Tribal (POST 2) at 12-1 for Doug O'Neill and Antonio Fresu. O'Neill with Fresu at 12-1 in the closing race of a long card — conditional value.

Hothead (POST 6) at 12-1 for Mark Glatt and Ricardo Gonzalez. Glatt's third entry on the card in a closing race — at 12-1, Hothead (POST 6) is the longshot of the Glatt barn on this day.

Dynodave (POST 7) at 12-1 for Charles S. Treece and Hector Isaac Berrios. Treece has two horses in this race — Unpretentious (POST 5) at 15-1 and Dynodave (POST 7) at 12-1. Neither is a strong wagering proposition in a field this competitive.

Single Track Mind (POST 13) at 15-1 for Jorge Gutierrez and Hector Isaac Berrios. Outside post of a 13-horse turf route — a challenging logistical scenario, though Berrios appears twice in this race (Posts 7 and 13) which creates a scheduling conflict. Post assignments may reflect late changes.

Unpretentious (POST 5) at 15-1 for Charles S. Treece and Kazushi Kimura. Worth noting as the lesser Treece entry.

Keep Dancin Nick (POST 12) at 20-1 for Steven Miyadi and Kyle Frey. An extreme outer post at this distance on the turf is a near-impossible scenario from a positional standpoint.

Kimmer (POST 11) at 30-1 for Genaro Vallejo and Cesar Belmont is the longest shot of the final race and can be safely dismissed.

Selections

Win: Midway Lane (POST 1) Place: Call Me Sir (POST 8) Show: Beyond Stoked (POST 4)

Betting Strategy: Midway Lane (POST 1) is a strong win play to close the card. Sadler-Jaramillo on the rail at 1 3/8 miles on turf is the cleanest structural advantage available in the final race. Exacta: Midway Lane (POST 1) over Call Me Sir (POST 8) and Beyond Stoked (POST 4). A trifecta using Midway Lane (POST 1) on top with Call Me Sir (POST 8), Beyond Stoked (POST 4), Joejoe Go (POST 10), and Henry Adams (POST 9) filling the bottom gives appropriate coverage in a 13-horse field.

Jockey Notes and Insights

Juan J. Hernandez is the busiest and most prominent rider on Sunday's card at Del Mar, appearing in Races 1, 2, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, and 10. His graded stakes assignment aboard Rabeeba (POST 3, Race 7) for Bob Baffert is the headline ride, but his mounting on Sono Veloce (POST 8, Race 5) and Liberation (POST 2, Race 4) indicates that multiple top connections are seeking him out. Hernandez has been one of the leading riders at the Del Mar summer meeting and his record on dirt and turf in this meet is strong.

Joel Rosario appears in Races 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10 — a heavy workload for a rider of his caliber. Wolf Hill (POST 7, Race 7), Beautiful Dawn (POST 4, Race 5), Gazon (POST 7, Race 6), Impressionistic (POST 9, Race 8), The Goat (POST 5, Race 9), and Call Me Sir (POST 8, Race 10) are his assignments. Rosario's presence on multiple mid-price horses in the back half of the card is a significant wagering signal. When a Hall of Fame-level rider takes multiple 5-1 to 8-1 mounts in a single afternoon, at least one of those is likely to fire.

E. Jaramillo is the clear workhorse of the Del Mar colony on Sunday, appearing in nearly every race on the card. His key rides include Howie's Law (POST 1, Race 1), Mia Familia (POST 8, Race 4), Take Revenge (POST 5, Race 5), Regal Patriot (POST 11, Race 6), Mohaven (POST 5, Race 7), Indispensable (POST 8, Race 9), and Midway Lane (POST 1, Race 10). Jaramillo has been among the leading riders at this Del Mar meet and his work on multiple top-trainer mounts suggests he has formed strong relationships with O'Neill, Sadler, and others this summer.

Antonio Fresu is having a productive meet and appears throughout Sunday's card on quality mounts for D'Amato, Callaghan, Papaprodromou, and others. His best opportunities come in Race 4 aboard Cortina D'amprezzo (POST 4) for D'Amato and Race 7 aboard She's No Quant (POST 2) for Freeman. When D'Amato and Freeman give Fresu the stakes mount, it reflects confidence in his ability to execute a race plan.

Drayden Van Dyke appears in Races 2, 6, and 10, with his most interesting assignment being Agency (POST 1, Race 6) at 12-1 on the turf for Andy Mathis. Van Dyke is a tactical master on turf and the 12-1 price makes Agency (POST 1) worth a small win bet. His appearance on Hallagrey (POST 6, Race 2) at 12-1 in the straight-course maiden is similarly intriguing.

Mike E. Smith taking Mirahmadi (POST 9, Race 9) for Baffert in the allowance mile is one of the more significant jockey notes of the day. Smith rarely takes mounts without genuine winning intent, and at 4-1, Mirahmadi (POST 9) deserves serious consideration against his stablemate Privman (POST 7).

T.C. Baze is a veteran Del Mar rider who appears in Races 3, 5, and 9. His most notable assignment is Fun To Run (POST 7, Race 3) in the $12,500 claimer, where his local knowledge could help him outperform the morning line. Baze on I'm Smoken Hot (POST 9, Race 5) in the maiden is another price horse worth monitoring.

Trainer Notes and Insights

John Sadler is the dominant trainer presence on Sunday's card, saddling entries in Races 2, 4, 6, 7, 9, and 10. His stable is in strong form following the Inshallah debut two weeks ago and the sustained activity through the Del Mar meet. Sadler's best win opportunities appear to be Liberation (POST 2, Race 4) in the turf route and Midway Lane (POST 1, Race 10) in the closing turf optional claimer. Privman (POST 7, Race 9) belongs to Baffert, though Sadler's entries The Goat (POST 5) and Indispensable (POST 8) compete in the same race, giving his barn dual exposure in the day's most valuable non-stakes race.

Bob Baffert saddles Rabeeba (POST 3) in Race 7 and the tandem of Privman (POST 7) and Mirahmadi (POST 9) in Race 9. Baffert has been an active presence at the Del Mar summer meet and his use of Hernandez and Smith in the same race (Race 9) suggests he believes both horses are genuine contenders. His Race 7 assignment with Rabeeba (POST 3) is the day's most straightforward single.

Philip D'Amato appears in Races 4, 6, 7, and 8. The dual entry in Race 4 (CORTINA D'AMPREZZO, POST 4, and STRUCK BY HER, POST 7) reflects D'Amato's stable depth. His Race 8 entry Marla Hooch (POST 4) at 5-1 with Fresu is among the most interesting turf maiden plays of the day given D'Amato's outstanding turf record.

Mark Glatt saddles horses in Races 1, 2, 3, 6, 8, and 10 — the deepest book on Sunday's card by race count. Glatt is particularly sharp with turf maidens, and his entries in Race 8 — Janz Joy (POST 6) at 4-1 and Zuzu's Classic Gal (POST 7) at 5-1 — represent the stable's best winning opportunity of the day. His closing entry Call Me Sir (POST 8, Race 10) with Rosario is equally compelling at 5-1.

Doug O'Neill is represented in Races 1, 4, 6, 7, and 10. His most significant entry is Channel Place (POST 4, Race 7) in the Terry Pine at 12-1, which is likely a tactical runner rather than a genuine stakes threat. Howie's Law (POST 1, Race 1) is his best winning proposition on the day.

Steve Knapp has entries in Races 2, 3, 6, 9, and 10. The dual entry in Race 2 — Chiseled In Stone (POST 3) at 2-1 and Vern Gosdin (POST 13) at 6-1 — is the most interesting Knapp angle of the day. When a trainer sends out a 2-1 morning-line horse in a maiden, the confidence is clear, and Chiseled In Stone (POST 3) appears to be a genuine stable favorite.

Jeff Mullins appears in Races 4, 5, and 8. His turf maiden entry Platinum Groove (POST 5, Race 8) at 6-1 with Berrios is worth monitoring for morning-line movement. Run With Liberty (POST 6, Race 4) at 4-1 on the turf for Mullins is a live optional claimer bet.

Best Wagering Strategies and Value Plays

The premier single bet of the day is Rabeeba (POST 3) in Race 7. Baffert-Hernandez in a Grade 3 on dirt at Del Mar is a combination that has been profitable throughout the summer, and the 2-1 morning line will compress to 8-5 or shorter at post time. Back this horse straight and use it confidently in multi-race wagers.

The best value single on the card is Beautiful Dawn (POST 4) in Race 5 with Joel Rosario at 6-1. Rosario's presence on a maiden filly in a competitive field at that price is a classic example of an overlaid mount. The combination of competitive post position, Hall of Fame rider, and morning-line odds that should compress to 4-1 or 5-1 creates a genuine overlay opportunity.

For the Pick 4 covering Races 7 through 10, the recommended structure is:

Race 7: Rabeeba (POST 3) single Race 8: Janz Joy (

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


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