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Delaware Park – Pick Pony Handicapper Report & Tip Sheet – News and Analysis for the September 19, 2026 card

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Race Day Overview — Delaware Park, September 19, 2026

Delaware Park closes out another weekend card with eight races spread across dirt and turf, featuring a mix of claimers and maiden claimers ranging from $7,500 to $25,000. The headliner story of the week, of course, is the Pennsylvania Derby at Parx tomorrow, where Michael Simone's Micanopy — a former $8,000 claimer from Tampa Bay Downs — has captured the attention of the mid-Atlantic racing community. Simone, who is Delaware Park-based, also has horses in today's card (YES I WILL in Race 2 and CLASSIC BALLAD in Race 4), making him a trainer to watch closely throughout the afternoon.

The card opens at 12:34 PM Eastern with a $16,000 claiming sprint on dirt and runs through Race 8 at 4:30 PM. Three of the eight races are contested on the turf course, including Races 3, 5, and 7, all of which are optional claimers at varying price levels. With the Keeneland September Sale and broader industry news dominating headlines, the focus today is squarely on the Delaware oval and a full card of competitive lower-level claiming racing.

No major scratches have been publicly reported ahead of first post, though bettors should confirm the official scratch list at the track or through Equibase prior to wagering, as turf races at Delaware late in the season are always subject to surface changes based on moisture levels.

Weather and Track Conditions — Delaware Park, September 19, 2026

September in northern Delaware typically brings mild temperatures and manageable humidity, with daytime highs in the upper 70s to low 80s Fahrenheit. The mid-Atlantic region has seen periodic rainfall through the middle of September 2026, and the turf course at Delaware Park has been getting steady use through the stretch run of the meeting.

The dirt main track at Delaware is a one-mile oval that plays fairly conventional, with no dramatic bias in either direction under normal conditions. The turf course, which runs on the inside rail, has been rated firm to good for most of the autumn meet. Any rainfall in the 24 to 48 hours preceding today's card could push the turf course toward good or soft, which would meaningfully affect the turf races. Bettors should check the official track condition at scratch time.

Track Bias and Post Position Analysis

Delaware Park's main dirt track historically favors horses that can secure a spot near the front or just off the early pace, particularly in sprint distances. The one-turn mile and six furlongs configuration at Delaware does not present an overwhelming rail bias, though horses that get caught wide early in route races on the main track can face a grinding trip. In sprint races at Delaware, the outside posts are not a significant disadvantage, and horses breaking from posts four through seven can work out a clean trip with a forward-tracking style.

On the Delaware turf course, the inside posts carry a meaningful advantage at routes of 1 1/8 miles and 1 1/16 miles, as the rail position in turf routes allows horses to save ground through the turns. In a full field of twelve horses, outside posts beyond eight can be a factor if the pace is slow and the field bunches, forcing horses to go three and four wide around the final turn. Posts one through five have historically been preferred on Delaware turf in route events, making inside draws in Races 3, 5, and 7 particularly valuable today.

For today's two turf route events at 1 1/8 miles (Races 3 and 7, 1830 furlongs converted), posts one through four are preferred. In the longer turf event in Race 5 (1870 furlongs), the same principle applies. In dirt sprints at six furlongs, all posts are relatively neutral with a slight edge to middle posts to avoid early traffic.

RACE 1 — Post (12:34)/11:34/10:34/9:34 — 1210f | D | C | Clm 8000b | BUN | Purse $16,000

This six-furlong dirt sprint opens the card with seven older horses competing at the $8,000 claiming level, the lowest rung on today's card. The “b” designation indicates horses who have not won two races in their lifetime are eligible, meaning this is a bottom-of-the-card affair that often attracts horses who have bounced around the lower claiming ranks without finding a win. With a $16,000 purse and a competitive morning line, this race shapes up as a genuine betting race with several horses capable of competing.

Pace Analysis

Gonzalo (POST 2) figures to be the pace-setter based on his morning line favoritism and what is typically an early-running style at the sprint distance. More Power (POST 3) will likely contest the early pace as well, creating a potential two-horse early duel that could set up closers. If both horses engage hard in the opening quarter, horses with late kick like Sharon's Prince (POST 4) and Seasonal Love (POST 7) could close into a weakened front end. The pace scenario is the critical variable in handicapping this race.

Key Contenders

Gonzalo (POST 2), trained by Pedro Nazario and ridden by Paul A. Luna, is the morning line co-favorite at 2-1. Nazario is an active Delaware Park conditioner who works well at the lower claiming levels, and Luna has been a reliable presence in the Delaware jockey colony throughout the meet. At this claiming level, a trainer-jockey combination that knows the track well is a meaningful advantage. GONZALO's morning line suggests the morning line maker sees this horse as the most likely winner, and at 2-1, the price reflects genuine respect for his chances.

More Power (POST 3), trained by Wayne Potts and ridden by Martina Rojas, is listed at 3-1. Potts is a competent mid-Atlantic conditioner, and MORE POWER's 3-1 morning line indicates consistent form that has attracted handicapper attention. Rojas has been developing her career in the mid-Atlantic circuit and brings energy and competitive riding to her mounts.

Ray Of Lov (POST 1), trained by Nesvil Hernan Bailon and ridden by Emanuel Rosario, opens at 4-1. The rail post in a six-furlong sprint is neutral at Delaware, and if RAY OF LOV can break cleanly and establish position, Rosario will keep this horse in a forward spot. Bailon is a lesser-known conditioner at Delaware, but Rosario's presence in the irons adds some confidence.

Secondary Choices

Sharon's Prince (POST 4), trained by Robert T. Paterno and ridden by Jose A. Batista, is the 5-1 morning line horse. Paterno is a journeyman Delaware trainer who has placed horses in the winner's circle at this level before, and Batista is one of the more reliable riders on today's card. If the pace develops as expected with Gonzalo (POST 2) and More Power (POST 3) engaged early, Sharon's Prince (POST 4) could be ideally positioned to swoop late.

Twelve Nelson (POST 5), trained by Michael E. Gorham and ridden by Raul E. Mena, is listed at 6-1. Gorham is an experienced Delaware-area trainer who knows how to spot horses, and Twelve Nelson (POST 5) at 6-1 offers some value if this horse has hidden form that the morning line does not fully reflect.

Longshots

Seasonal Love (POST 7), trained by Brett Brinkman and ridden by Gavin Ashton, is listed at 8-1. In a pace-contentious sprint, a horse sitting in the seven-hole with a late-running style could attract some play. Battle Warrior (POST 6), trained by Pedro Posadas and ridden by Marvin Fernandez, opens at 12-1 and is the longshot of the race. At this claiming level, even a 12-1 morning line horse can compete if the conditions are right, but Battle Warrior (POST 6) would need a significant pace meltdown to factor.

Selections

Win: Gonzalo (POST 2) Place: More Power (POST 3) Show: Sharon's Prince (POST 4)

Betting Strategy: Use Gonzalo (POST 2) and More Power (POST 3) in an exacta box. If looking for value, single Sharon's Prince (POST 4) underneath in a win-place-show wager. The 2-1 on Gonzalo (POST 2) is short but acceptable for a race opener, and a $2 exacta box of the top two horses creates a reasonable base for daily double plays into Race 2.

RACE 2 — Post (1:06)/12:06/11:06/10:06 — 1320f | D | CO | OClm 25000 | BUN | Purse $26,000

A one-turn mile on the dirt for older males who can be claimed for $25,000, this optional claimer at the top of the lower-tier claiming ranks draws a five-horse field that makes for a compact but intriguing betting race. The small field typically compresses the exotic payoffs, but it also means pace dynamics are easier to identify. Michael Simone saddles Yes I Will (POST 1) here while the Gallegos barn has two entries in this race.

Pace Analysis

With five horses and a one-mile distance on the dirt, pace will be critical. Close The Gate (POST 4), trained by John E. Salzman Jr. and ridden by J.S. Rocco Jr., and Richeztoo (POST 2) are likely to contest the front. Rocketeer (POST 3), the other Gallegos entry, may sit just off the pace. If Close The Gate (POST 4) establishes early control without a fight, it becomes a significant advantage for a closer to stalk and pounce at the half-mile mark. Conversely, if both Gallegos horses try to run with the leader, the race opens up considerably.

Key Contenders

Close The Gate (POST 4), trained by John E. Salzman Jr. and ridden by J.S. Rocco Jr., shares the morning line favorite billing at 2-1. Salzman is a well-established Delaware trainer with a strong record at this optional claiming level, and Rocco is one of the leading riders at Delaware Park. This combination of trainer and jockey at the right class level makes Close The Gate (POST 4) the most credible selection. At a one-mile optional claimer at $25,000, class and pace control are paramount, and Salzman knows how to prepare horses for these spots.

Richeztoo (POST 2), trained by Jose A. Gallegos and ridden by Cipriano Gil, is also listed at 2-1. Gallegos having two horses in the same race is a notable angle — trainers in this situation often have a preferred horse and an insurance entry. Richeztoo (POST 2) at 2-1 versus Rocketeer (POST 3) at 2-1 creates an interesting dynamic. Gil on Richeztoo (POST 2) versus Batista on Rocketeer (POST 3) could be a tell; Batista is generally the stronger rider, which might suggest Rocketeer (POST 3) is the barn's primary hope.

Rocketeer (POST 3), trained by Jose A. Gallegos and ridden by Jose A. Batista, is also at 2-1. Given that Gallegos is running two horses at the same morning line odds, the jockey assignments are the differentiator. Batista's presence on Rocketeer (POST 3) gives this horse a slight edge in the Gallegos stable debate.

Secondary Choices

Yes I Will (POST 1), trained by Michael Simone and ridden by Julio A. Hernandez, is the 5-1 morning line horse. With Simone generating headlines this week thanks to Micanopy's preparations for the Pennsylvania Derby, Yes I Will (POST 1) carries some trainer spotlight attention. Simone has proven capable of bringing horses along at unlikely odds and getting them competitive, and Yes I Will (POST 1) warrants respect even at a price.

Longshots

Party On Rufus (POST 5), trained by Jose S. Rodriguez and ridden by Paul A. Luna, opens at 15-1 and is the longshot of the race. In a five-horse field at a mile, a 15-1 shot would need significant trouble in running to factor, but at this claiming level, surprises do happen. Party On Rufus (POST 5) is a throwout for win purposes but could be used as a saver in the trifecta.

Selections

Win: Close The Gate (POST 4) Place: Rocketeer (POST 3) Show: Yes I Will (POST 1)

Betting Strategy: The three co-favorites at 2-1 compress the exotic value here. The best approach is to key Close The Gate (POST 4) over Rocketeer (POST 3) and Yes I Will (POST 1) in an exacta, using the Salzman-Rocco combination as the top. A small trifecta with Close The Gate (POST 4) on top, Rocketeer (POST 3) and Yes I Will (POST 1) in second, and all others in third gives exposure without breaking the bank. Use Race 2 winners as a leg in the Pick 3 starting in Race 2.

RACE 3 — Post (1:41)/12:41/11:41/10:41 — 1830f | T | CO | OClm 16000 | BUN | Purse $21,000

The first turf race of the card is a 1 1/8-mile optional claimer on the grass for older non-winners, drawing a full field of twelve horses. This is the largest field on the card and will test pace analysis skills considerably. As noted in the track bias section, inside posts carry a meaningful advantage in turf routes at Delaware, giving Bonfiglio (POST 1), Real Men Violin (POST 2), Metatron (POST 3), and Cafe La Paix (POST 4) a natural edge in trip terms. Bettors should confirm the turf course condition at scratch time, as weather can significantly alter the preferred running style on the Delaware lawn.

Pace Analysis

Twelve horses in a 1 1/8-mile turf route creates a complex pace scenario. Turf routes at this level tend to run at a moderate early pace with the field often compact through the first half mile, then the race develops quickly on the final turn. Front-runners in turf routes at Delaware can survive if the pace is honest but not suicidal. Cafe La Paix (POST 4) and Daw Samaa (POST 6) are likely to be forwardly placed based on their trainer and jockey angles. The inside posts of Bonfiglio (POST 1), Real Men Violin (POST 2), and Metatron (POST 3) will be in position to run against the rail through the first turn and conserve energy.

Key Contenders

Bonfiglio (POST 1), trained by Robert A. Werneth and ridden by J.S. Rocco Jr., opens at 4-1. The inside post with Rocco in the irons is a compelling package in a 12-horse turf route. Rocco's proficiency on the Delaware turf is well established, and Werneth has a steady stable at the meet. A horse that can save ground on the inside in a full turf field has a structural advantage, and Bonfiglio (POST 1) is well positioned to exploit that edge.

Cafe La Paix (POST 4), trained by Faustio Gutierrez and ridden by Pascacio Lopez, is also at 4-1. Gutierrez is active at Delaware, and Cafe La Paix (POST 4) with a forwardly placed style from post four could control the race if the early pace is moderate. In turf routes, a horse that gets to the front without burning energy is dangerous late.

Daw Samaa (POST 6), trained by Jamie Ness and ridden by Martin Chuan, is listed at 6-1. Ness is one of the sharper mid-Atlantic trainers, with a reputation for placing horses in spots where they can win. CHUAN has been a consistent rider throughout the meet. Daw Samaa (POST 6) at 6-1 offers legitimate value given the Ness angle, and bettors who follow trainer patterns will note that Ness does well with horses in optional claimers on the turf.

Secondary Choices

Metatron (POST 3), trained by Keri Brion and ridden by J. Pimentel, opens at 5-1. Brion is a well-respected Delaware-area trainer, particularly on the turf, and Metatron (POST 3) benefits from a favorable inside post draw. Brion's turf horses often run well at the Delaware meet, and 5-1 represents solid value in a 12-horse field.

Lord Donegal (POST 8), trained by Neil R. Morris and ridden by Jose R. Betancourt, opens at 8-1. Despite the wider post draw, Lord Donegal (POST 8) at 8-1 is a horse worth including in exotics. Morris is a capable conditioner who targets these optional claimer turf events, and Betancourt has been riding with confidence.

Don't Copy Me (POST 12), trained by Ramon Aguayo and ridden by Emanuel Rosario, is at 8-1 from the far outside post. In a 12-horse turf route, post 12 requires an experienced rider to navigate cleanly, and Rosario is capable of that. The wide draw is a concern, but 8-1 on a horse with Rosario up in a turf route can offer value if this horse has sufficient form.

Longshots

Master Nibbles (POST 7), trained by Jason Cole and ridden by Yomar Orlando Ortiz, is at 10-1. Cole is a minor stable at Delaware, and Master Nibbles (POST 7) will need everything to go right to factor. St Pete's Passion (POST 10), trained by Clyde W. Martin and ridden by Jose A. Batista, is also at 10-1. Batista's name on any horse adds some credibility, and St Pete's Passion (POST 10) could sneak into the exotics from a mid-pack position. Nilambar (POST 11), trained by Bruce M. Kravets and ridden by Julio A. Hernandez, is at 10-1. Kravets has multiple horses on today's card and will be discussed further in the trainer notes. Calling On Heaven (POST 9), trained by Josue Arce and ridden by Jose A. Batista, is at 12-1. My Pal Bill (POST 5), trained by Anthony Pecoraro and ridden by Gavin Ashton, is at 15-1. Real Men Violin (POST 2), trained by Josue Arce and ridden by Cipriano Gil, is the longshot at 20-1 from post two. Despite the generous price, Real Men Violin (POST 2) has an inside draw advantage that is not reflected in the morning line.

Selections

Win: Bonfiglio (POST 1) Place: Daw Samaa (POST 6) Show: Metatron (POST 3)

Betting Strategy: In a 12-horse turf route, trifectas are the primary wager. Key Bonfiglio (POST 1) on top and use Daw Samaa (POST 6), Metatron (POST 3), Cafe La Paix (POST 4), and Lord Donegal (POST 8) in a wheel underneath. A $0.50 trifecta with Bonfiglio (POST 1) on top, any combination of the four secondary choices in second and third, provides solid coverage. Include Don't Copy Me (POST 12) as a small saver given Rosario's ability to navigate from a wide draw.

RACE 4 — Post (2:14)/1:14/12:14/11:14 — 1760f | D | C | Clm 7500 | BUM | Purse $20,000

A one-mile dirt race for older fillies and mares at the $7,500 claiming level, this seven-horse field features several horses who have been trying to find a win at Delaware's lower claiming levels. Simone's Classic Ballad (POST 3) generates trainer interest given this week's coverage of the stable, and the morning line favorite Chelsea Wall (POST 1) is a barn-favorite angle worth examining.

Pace Analysis

In a seven-horse field at a one-mile dirt event for fillies and mares, pace is likely to be honest. Chelsea Wall (POST 1), the 2-1 morning line favorite from the inside post, will likely be forwardly positioned under Martin Chuan. Miti Fast Flower (POST 6), at 4-1 with J.S. Rocco Jr. aboard, could press the pace from mid-field. If Chelsea Wall (POST 1) can control without a significant pace challenge, this race becomes a wire-to-wire scenario that Ness's barn has executed before at Delaware. A ground-saving trip from the rail is available at one mile, and the Ness-Chuan combination will utilize that.

Key Contenders

Chelsea Wall (POST 1), trained by Jamie Ness and ridden by Martin Chuan, opens at 2-1 and is the clear morning line favorite. Ness's presence in this race mirrors his Daw Samaa (POST 6) entry in Race 3 — the trainer knows Delaware Park extremely well and consistently targets these lower claiming spots with horses that are fit and ready. CHUAN aboard from the rail in a one-mile dirt race for fillies and mares is an excellent setup. The 2-1 is short but justifiable given the trainer-jockey edge.

Classic Ballad (POST 3), trained by Michael Simone and ridden by Julio A. Hernandez, opens at 3-1. With Simone making news this week and Yes I Will (POST 1) running in Race 2, Classic Ballad (POST 3) gets additional scrutiny. Simone has demonstrated the ability to develop horses from modest origins, and Classic Ballad (POST 3) at 3-1 is worth backing if there is any question about Chelsea Wall (POST 1)'s current fitness.

Miti Fast Flower (POST 6), trained by Kelly Lynn Deiter and ridden by J.S. Rocco Jr., is at 4-1. Rocco's second appearance on the card in a key position is notable. Deiter keeps horses competitive at the lower claiming levels at Delaware, and Miti Fast Flower (POST 6) from post six in a seven-horse field has a reasonable trip in store if Rocco can save ground around the turn.

Secondary Choices

Patient Fi (POST 5), trained by Elliott Soto-Martinez and ridden by Anthony Salgado, is at 6-1. This horse offers some pace flexibility and mid-level value. Buckin' Right (POST 2), trained by Joanne Shankle and ridden by Raul E. Mena, is at 8-1. Mena is a serviceable rider at Delaware and can get a horse through traffic, though 8-1 suggests this horse has not shown the kind of consistent form to warrant heavy support.

Longshots

Winkiwinki (POST 7), trained by Silvino Ramirez and ridden by Christian Maragh, is at 8-1. Maragh is an experienced rider who can get a horse into position from an outside post, and Winkiwinki (POST 7) should be on the trifecta ticket as a saver. C C Girl (POST 4), trained by Alejandro Olais Mendieta and ridden by Sara Hess, is at 10-1 and is the longest shot in this field. Hess has been developing her career at Delaware, and C C Girl (POST 4) would need a significant pace collapse to factor.

Selections

Win: Chelsea Wall (POST 1) Place: Classic Ballad (POST 3) Show: Miti Fast Flower (POST 6)

Betting Strategy: The Ness-Chuan angle is the cornerstone of this race's wagering strategy. Chelsea Wall (POST 1) should be singled in any Pick 3 that runs through this race. An exacta with Chelsea Wall (POST 1) on top and Classic Ballad (POST 3) and Miti Fast Flower (POST 6) underneath offers solid coverage. Trifecta: Chelsea Wall (POST 1) over Classic Ballad (POST 3) and Miti Fast Flower (POST 6) over the field.

RACE 5 — Post (2:46)/1:46/12:46/11:46 — 1870f | T | CO | OClm 20000 | BUN | Purse $27,000

The second turf route on the card runs at approximately 1 3/16 miles and draws nine horses in an optional claimer for older males at $20,000. This is the longest race on the card and one of the most competitive. Ironsides (POST 5) is the morning line favorite at 2-1, and two horses open at 4-1 in what shapes up as a three-horse race at the top of the market with several legitimate longshot threats lurking.

Pace Analysis

Nine horses in a turf route at nearly 1 3/16 miles will feature a moderate to slow early pace, which is typical of Delaware turf routes at this distance. Ironsides (POST 5) from a dead-middle post is the morning line favorite, suggesting a horse with enough versatility to sit anywhere in the field. Sky's Not Falling (POST 3) and Cloud Music (POST 8) at 4-1 each are likely to be positioned in stalking spots. The race will likely be decided in the final three furlongs, making late kick and turf ability the primary handicapping factors.

Key Contenders

Ironsides (POST 5), trained by Faustio Gutierrez and ridden by Martin Chuan, is the 2-1 morning line favorite. Gutierrez also saddles Cafe La Paix (POST 4) in Race 3, giving him a productive afternoon potential if both horses fire. Chuan's consistency on the Delaware card makes him a rider whose mounts deserve respect. Ironsides (POST 5) from post five in a nine-horse turf route has enough flexibility to work out a clean trip, and Gutierrez's turf optionals have been productive at Delaware this meet.

Sky's Not Falling (POST 3), trained by Emanuel J. Geralis and ridden by Emanuel Rosario, opens at 4-1. Rosario continues to be active across multiple races today, and his presence on Sky's Not Falling (POST 3) in a turf route of this distance is noteworthy. Geralis places horses well in optional claiming spots, and Sky's Not Falling (POST 3) from post three has a favorable draw with the ability to save ground on the inside.

Cloud Music (POST 8), trained by Michael E. Gorham and ridden by Madeline Rowland, is also at 4-1. Gorham also saddles Twelve Nelson (POST 5) in Race 1, making this a full afternoon for the barn. Cloud Music (POST 8) from post eight in a nine-horse turf field faces a wider draw, but Rowland's ability to steer horses through traffic on the turf gives this horse a fighting chance. At 4-1, Cloud Music (POST 8) represents solid each-way value.

Secondary Choices

Roscoe Pine (POST 7), trained by Patrick B. McBurney and ridden by Cipriano Gil, is at 6-1. McBurney is a competent mid-Atlantic trainer who has aimed horses successfully at Delaware's optional claimer turf events. Roscoe Pine (POST 7) from post seven will need to find a clean trip from outside the field but has enough form credibility to be included in exotics.

Chuck Adams (POST 1), trained by Bruce M. Kravets and ridden by Julio A. Hernandez, is at 10-1. The rail post in a turf route at Delaware is a plus, and Kravets runs Chuck Adams (POST 1) at an intriguing price. With Hernandez aboard and the inside draw, Chuck Adams (POST 1) deserves a look in the trifecta.

Longshots

Kitten's Ploy (POST 4), trained by Jose A. Ramirez and ridden by Ronaldo Rodriguez, is at 15-1. One Bid (POST 6), trained by Timothy A. Hills and ridden by Jose A. Batista, is at 15-1. Batista on a 15-1 shot in a turf route is worth a token inclusion in the superfecta. Power Wrench (POST 2), trained by Steven Dye and ridden by Vince Halliday, is at 20-1. Adios Buster (POST 9), also trained by Steven Dye and ridden by Barrington Bell, is at 20-1. Dye running two horses at this level at 20-1 each suggests the barn may be looking for a conditioning race or targeting a specific pace scenario that benefits one of the pair.

Selections

Win: Ironsides (POST 5) Place: Sky's Not Falling (POST 3) Show: Cloud Music (POST 8)

Betting Strategy: Ironsides (POST 5) is the play at 2-1 on a turf route where Gutierrez and Chuan have the tools to win. An exacta of Ironsides (POST 5) over Sky's Not Falling (POST 3), Cloud Music (POST 8), and Roscoe Pine (POST 7) provides excellent coverage. Trifecta: Ironsides (POST 5) over the same three in second and third with Chuck Adams (POST 1) as a saver. This race is a strong candidate to use in Pick 3 and Pick 4 wagers running through the turf card.

RACE 6 — Post (3:14)/2:14/1:14/12:14 — 1320f | D | CO | OClm 20000 | BUM | Purse $27,000

A six-furlong optional claimer for older fillies and mares at $20,000 on the main track draws seven horses. This is the second highest purse on the card and will attract bettors looking for clarity in a manageable-sized field. The Padilla-Preciado barn has two entries in this race, with Don't Listen (POST 1) at 3-1 and Pink Rose (POST 2) at 2-1, creating a stable exacta situation that sharp bettors will want to exploit.

Pace Analysis

In a seven-horse sprint at six furlongs for fillies and mares, the pace dynamic is shaped primarily by the Padilla-Preciado duo from the inside posts. Pink Rose (POST 2) as the morning line favorite at 2-1 and Don't Listen (POST 1) at 3-1 will likely run as a team early, with one setting pace and the other sitting just off. The question is which horse is the barn's primary weapon. Braquet (POST 5), at 4-1 with Chiappe R. in the irons, will likely stalk the pace from a mid-field position. Shkhara Fire (POST 7), at 6-1 from the outside, presents the outside closer option.

Key Contenders

Pink Rose (POST 2), trained by Ernesto Padilla-Preciado and ridden by Carol Cedeno, is the 2-1 morning line favorite. In the dual-entry situation with Don't Listen (POST 1), the shorter morning line price on Pink Rose (POST 2) suggests the morning line maker views this as the primary horse from the barn. Cedeno has been riding at Delaware with increasing confidence, and Pink Rose (POST 2) from post two in a sprint is an ideal setup for a forwardly positioned horse. The Padilla-Preciado barn's dual entry is a sharp angle — when trainers enter two horses at similar prices in a sprint, they often have a clear read on which horse is the main event.

Don't Listen (POST 1), trained by Ernesto Padilla-Preciado and ridden by Anthony Salgado, is at 3-1. The rail in a sprint at Delaware is neutral, and Salgado is a competent jockey. Don't Listen (POST 1) at 3-1 offers slightly better value than Pink Rose (POST 2) at 2-1, and bettors who cannot decide between the pair might consider using both in exacta wheels while keying the preferred one on top.

Braquet (POST 5), trained by Bruce M. Kravets and ridden by Chiappe R., is at 4-1. Kravets runs multiple horses on today's card, and Braquet (POST 5) appears to be the barn's best hope in this race. The mid-field post draw suits a stalker in a sprint, and Chiappe is a capable hand for this spot.

Secondary Choices

Neolithica (POST 6), trained by Bruce M. Kravets and ridden by Martin Chuan, is at 6-1. Kravets running Braquet (POST 5) and Neolithica (POST 6) in the same race mirrors Gallegos's double in Race 2. CHUAN on Neolithica (POST 6) is the stronger rider between the two Kravets horses, which might suggest Neolithica (POST 6) is the more live of the pair despite being longer on the morning line.

Shkhara Fire (POST 7), trained by Gina Perri and ridden by Matilda Burnham, is at 6-1. Outside closers in six-furlong sprints at Delaware can find their way into the frame if the front end collapses. Shkhara Fire (POST 7) from the outside with a late run could hit the board if the Padilla-Preciado horses empty.

Longshots

Miss Raucus (POST 4), trained by Michael V. Pino and ridden by Emanuel Rosario, is at 8-1. Rosario's book of mounts today is heavy, and his presence on Miss Raucus (POST 4) — even at 8-1 — deserves a second look. Pino is a long-tenured mid-Atlantic trainer. Ada May (POST 3), trained by Jesus Rodriguez and ridden by Edgar Villasmil, is at 15-1 and faces a steep task against this field.

Selections

Win: Pink Rose (POST 2) Place: Don't Listen (POST 1) Show: Braquet (POST 5)

Betting Strategy: The most efficient approach here is a straight exacta of Pink Rose (POST 2) over Don't Listen (POST 1), which cashes if the Padilla-Preciado barn runs 1-2 in either order. Also play the reverse: Don't Listen (POST 1) over Pink Rose (POST 2). Using both in a $2 exacta box costs $4 and gives full coverage of the trainer double. Braquet (POST 5) should be included in trifecta tickets underneath the two favored runners.

RACE 7 — Post (3:55)/2:55/1:55/12:55 — 1830f | T | CO | OClm 20000 | BUM | Purse $27,000

The third and final turf route of the card runs at 1 1/8 miles for older fillies and mares. Racey Ruby (POST 1) is the heavy morning line favorite at 1-1, drawing the coveted inside post in a seven-horse field. Americandreammaker (POST 5) at 2-1 is the primary challenger, and Tongue Twister (POST 7) at 5-1 completes the top layer of the morning line.

Pace Analysis

With Racey Ruby (POST 1) as an odds-on favorite from the inside in a seven-horse turf route, the pace scenario becomes secondary to the class question. A heavy favorite in a turf route at Delaware from the inside post with Gavin Ashton aboard is a formidable package. Americandreammaker (POST 5) will need to find a way past an odds-on horse who has inside track position from the rail. The pace in this race is likely to be moderate, as turf routes for fillies and mares at optional claimer level tend not to feature suicidal front-running. Tongue Twister (POST 7), trained by Keri Brion, figures to stalk from outside.

Key Contenders

Racey Ruby (POST 1), trained by M.L. Catalano Jr. and ridden by Gavin Ashton, is the 1-1 morning line favorite. Catalano is a known shipper who brings horses into Delaware spots when they have a clear advantage, and Racey Ruby (POST 1) from the inside post with Ashton aboard is a textbook setup. At odds-on, this horse is clearly the class of the field in handicappers' assessment. Ashton riding from the rail in a turf route will save maximum ground and keep Racey Ruby (POST 1) in the ideal position throughout. An odds-on turf route favorite at Delaware from post one is difficult to fade.

Americandreammaker (POST 5), trained by Barry Foley and ridden by Martin Chuan, is at 2-1. Foley is a capable conditioner, and CHUAN has a productive afternoon going if his earlier mounts fire. Americandreammaker (POST 5) will need a clear run from post five in a seven-horse field, which is achievable, and Chuan's poise in turf routes gives this horse a legitimate shot at upsetting the favorite. At 2-1, Americandreammaker (POST 5) is fairly priced as the second choice.

Secondary Choices

Tongue Twister (POST 7), trained by Keri Brion and ridden by J. Pimentel, is at 5-1. Brion's turf horses are always respected at Delaware, and Tongue Twister (POST 7) from the outside post will need Pimentel to find a clean trip. At 5-1, this horse offers value if Racey Ruby (POST 1) underperforms. Brion also runs Metatron (POST 3) in Race 3, making this a busy afternoon for the barn on the turf.

Chilling Factor (POST 2), trained by Monica McGoey and ridden by Jose A. Batista, is at 10-1. McGoey is a northern-based trainer who has shipped horses into Delaware's optional claimer events, and Batista's presence gives Chilling Factor (POST 2) some credibility as a trifecta inclusion.

Longshots

Ariana Valentina (POST 6), trained by John Collins and ridden by Jose R. Betancourt, is at 10-1. Forest Acclamation (POST 3), trained by Johnathon Fearon and ridden by Limber Taboada Flores, is at 20-1. Rose Of Sharon (POST 4), trained by Clarence B. King and ridden by Marvin Fernandez, is at 20-1. In a seven-horse turf route dominated by a 1-1 favorite, the longshots would need Racey Ruby (POST 1) to encounter traffic or come up lame to factor. Ariana Valentina (POST 6) at 10-1 is the most logical longshot inclusion in superfecta tickets.

Selections

Win: Racey Ruby (POST 1) Place: Americandreammaker (POST 5) Show: Tongue Twister (POST 7)

Betting Strategy: With an odds-on favorite, the win bet on Racey Ruby (POST 1) returns limited profit. The better play is an exacta of Racey Ruby (POST 1) over Americandreammaker (POST 5) and Tongue Twister (POST 7), which should return a modest but better-than-even money payout. A trifecta boxing Racey Ruby (POST 1), Americandreammaker (POST 5), and Tongue Twister (POST 7) in all combinations offers exposure to the full top three. If you want to single Racey Ruby (POST 1) in Pick 3 and Pick 4 plays into Race 8, the return on the straight bet matters less than using the horse as a banker.

RACE 8 — Post (4:30)/3:30/2:30/1:30 — 1320f | D | M | Md 16000 | BUM | Purse $20,000

The card closes with a six-furlong maiden claimer on the dirt for older fillies and mares at $16,000. Six horses compete in this bottom-of-the-card maiden affair, with two co-favorites at 2-1 in Velveteen (POST 3) and Ivey My Love (POST 5). The Pecoraro barn has two entries here with Chiquilla's Storm (POST 1) and Sassy Sangria (POST 2), providing another trainer double angle to close the card.

Pace Analysis

Six maidens in a sprint is a wide-open pace scenario. Horses who have not broken their maiden at this level may have pace versatility that is difficult to project, and early pace in maiden claimers can be unpredictable. Velveteen (POST 3) and Ivey My Love (POST 5) at co-favorite suggest two horses with the best form in the field, and whichever one gets the better of the early pace battle will likely determine the outcome. Molly The Cat (POST 4) from a middle post with J.S. Rocco Jr. aboard figures to be present early as well.

Key Contenders

Velveteen (POST 3), trained by Bruce M. Kravets and ridden by Martin Chuan, is the 2-1 morning line co-favorite. Kravets has had multiple horses on today's card, and Velveteen (POST 3) with Chuan in the irons is the barn's featured closer for the card's final race. Chuan's second full book of turf and dirt riding today keeps him sharp, and Velveteen (POST 3) with the Kravets-Chuan combination is a strong late-card play.

Ivey My Love (POST 5), trained by Steven Dye and ridden by Barrington Bell, is also at 2-1. Dye has entered Power Wrench (POST 2) and Adios Buster (POST 9) in Race 5, suggesting the barn is active on this card. Ivey My Love (POST 5) with Bell in the irons from post five in a six-horse maiden sprint is set up well. Bell has ridden Dye horses before, and the trainer-jockey comfort level is a positive.

Sassy Sangria (POST 2), trained by Anthony Pecoraro and ridden by Carol Cedeno, is at 4-1. Cedeno rode Pink Rose (POST 2) in Race 6 for the Padilla-Preciado barn, and her reappearance on Sassy Sangria (POST 2) here continues what may be a productive card for the jockey. Pecoraro running two horses in the closing maiden claimer is a common tactic for trainers looking to place a difficult-to-win maiden, and Sassy Sangria (POST 2) at 4-1 is the preferred of the two Pecoraro runners based on the morning line.

Secondary Choices

Molly The Cat (POST 4), trained by McLean Robertson and ridden by J.S. Rocco Jr., is at 6-1. Rocco's third significant mount of the afternoon after Bonfiglio (POST 1) in Race 3, Close The Gate (POST 4) in Race 2, and Miti Fast Flower (POST 6) in Race 4 — closing with Molly The Cat (POST 4) in Race 8 gives the rider a full book. Robertson is a capable trainer who can place a maiden in a competitive spot, and 6-1 on Molly The Cat (POST 4) with Rocco up offers some value.

Longshots

Chiquilla's Storm (POST 1), trained by Anthony Pecoraro and ridden by Emanuel Rosario, is at 8-1. The inside post with Rosario aboard is a positive, but 8-1 in a maiden claimer against co-favorites reflects a horse with modest form expectations. Irie And Mellow (POST 6), trained by Clarence B. King and ridden by Marvin Fernandez, is at 8-1 from the outside post. In a six-horse maiden sprint, the outside post is a minimal disadvantage, and Irie And Mellow (POST 6) could close into a messy pace.

Selections

Win: Velveteen (POST 3) Place: Ivey My Love (POST 5) Show: Sassy Sangria (POST 2)

Betting Strategy: With two co-favorites and a Pecoraro double, this is a classic end-of-card exacta box race. Box Velveteen (POST 3) and Ivey My Love (POST 5) in the exacta as the primary wager. Add Sassy Sangria (POST 2) and Molly The Cat (POST 4) in a trifecta with the two favorites on top. This race closes the Pick 3, Pick 4, and any late multi-race exotics, so ensure your earlier legs are in order before making heavy maiden claimer investments here.

Jockey Notes and Insights

Martin Chuan is the standout rider to follow today, with mounts in Race 3 (DAW SAMAA, POST 6), Race 4 (CHELSEA WALL, POST 1), Race 5 (IRONSIDES, POST 5), Race 7 (AMERICANDREAMMAKER, POST 5), and Race 8 (VELVETEEN, POST 3). That is five mounts across the card, a significant book that includes several morning line favorites and near-favorites. Chuan's versatility on both dirt and turf at Delaware is a significant asset, and a rider who carries this kind of workload for multiple conditioners is clearly in demand at the meet. Bettors who follow rider form patterns will note that Chuan's mounts today span three of Delaware's top conditioners: Ness, Gutierrez, and Kravets.

J.S. Rocco Jr. is equally busy with key mounts in Race 2 (CLOSE THE GATE, POST 4), Race 3 (BONFIGLIO, POST 1), Race 4 (MITI FAST FLOWER, POST 6), and Race 8 (MOLLY THE CAT, POST 4). Rocco is a perennial leader in the Delaware Park jockey standings and is particularly dangerous on the turf. His mounts on Bonfiglio (POST 1) in Race 3 and Close The Gate (POST 4) in Race 2 are among the best plays on the card.

Jose A. Batista has perhaps the widest spread of mounts today, appearing in Races 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, and 7. Batista's presence across multiple races and both surfaces makes him the jockey to watch for exotic plays, as his mounts frequently hit the board at Delaware. He has the ability to ride from both the front and from off the pace.

Emanuel Rosario has mounts in Races 1, 3, 5, and 8, spread across both surfaces. Rosario is particularly effective on the turf, and his assignment on Sky's Not Falling (POST 3) in Race 5 is a standout book choice.

Gavin Ashton's single most important mount of the day is Racey Ruby (POST 1) in Race 7 at odds-on. He also rides Seasonal Love (POST 7) in Race 1 and My Pal Bill (POST 5) in Race 3. Ashton is effective at Delaware, and his ride on the odds-on turf favorite in Race 7 is the race of the day for his book.

Trainer Notes and Insights

Jamie Ness is the trainer of the day based on meet performance and his ability to consistently win at Delaware with lower-to-mid claiming horses. Ness saddles Daw Samaa (POST 6) in Race 3 and Chelsea Wall (POST 1) in Race 4, giving him a legitimate shot at a two-win afternoon. Ness's record with optional claimer turf horses at Delaware is strong, and his fillies and mares in the claiming ranks have been among his strongest performers this meet.

Bruce M. Kravets has entries in four races today: Chuck Adams (POST 1) in Race 5, Braquet (POST 5) and Neolithica (POST 6) in Race 6, and Velveteen (POST 3) in Race 8, plus Nilambar (POST 11) in Race 3. Running five horses across a single card at Delaware reflects an active barn, and Velveteen (POST 3) in Race 8 with Chuan is the barn's best chance.

Michael Simone, the story of the Delaware Park meet this week given Micanopy's Pennsylvania Derby entry, has two horses running today: Yes I Will (POST 1) in Race 2 and Classic Ballad (POST 3) in Race 4. Simone has demonstrated an exceptional ability to develop horses beyond expectations, and both of his horses today deserve positive trainer form bias consideration.

Faustio Gutierrez saddles Cafe La Paix (POST 4) in Race 3 and Ironsides (POST 5) in Race 5. Both are legitimate contenders at reasonable prices, and a Gutierrez double today would be a satisfying outcome for followers of the barn.

Keri Brion has Metatron (POST 3) in Race 3 and Tongue Twister (POST 7) in Race 7, both on the turf. Brion's turf runners are consistently dangerous at Delaware, and both horses should be included in exotic tickets in their respective races.

The Padilla-Preciado barn's dual entry in Race 6 (DON'T LISTEN, POST 1 and PINK ROSE, POST 2) and the Gallegos dual entry in Race 2 (RICHEZTOO, POST 2 and ROCKETEER, POST 3) are the two stable entry angles that smart bettors will exploit throughout the card.

Best Wagering Strategies and Value Plays

The best single-race value play on the card is Braquet (POST 5) in Race 6 at 4-1, representing an alternative to the Padilla-Preciado dominant duo for bettors who believe the barn's horses will set pace and fade. Similarly, Metatron (POST 3) in Race 3 at 5-1 with Brion training for the turf is excellent value in a 12-horse field.

The best win bet on the card is Chelsea Wall (POST 1) in Race 4 at 2-1. The Ness-Chuan combination at Delaware in a lower-claiming dirt race is among the most reliable angles of the afternoon. At 2-1, the odds are not generous, but the win probability justifies a larger investment relative to other races.

For the Pick 3, the sequence of Races 6, 7, and 8 offers an interesting structure. Pink Rose (POST 2) in Race 6, Racey Ruby (POST 1) in Race 7, and Velveteen (POST 3) in Race 8 form the backbone of a late Pick 3. A $1 Pick 3 singling all three returns a modest payout given the three favorites, but adding Americandreammaker (POST 5) in Race 7 and Ivey My Love (POST 5) in Race 8 with a two-horse spread on each race creates a reasonable coverage ticket for $4.

For the Pick 4 covering Races 5 through 8, the structure is: Ironsides (POST 5) in Race 5, Pink Rose (POST 2) in Race 6, Racey Ruby (POST 1) in Race 7, and Velveteen (POST 3) in Race 8. A base ticket using one horse per leg costs $1. Adding Sky's Not Falling (POST 3) in Race 5 and Americandreammaker (POST 5) in Race 7 as backup options creates a $4 Pick 4 ticket that covers the most likely outcomes.

The best longshot play on the card is Chuck Adams (POST 1) in Race 5 at 10-1. Inside post in a nine-horse turf route, Julio A. Hernandez in the irons, and the Kravets barn — which has been active all afternoon — combine for a horse that could hit the board at a meaningful price. Use Chuck Adams (POST 1) in the trifecta and superfecta underneath Ironsides (POST 5) in Race 5.

The most intriguing exacta value bet is Don't Listen (POST 1) over Pink Rose (POST 2) in Race 6 at approximately 3-1 and 2-1 on the morning line. The reverse of the morning line favorite on top of the second choice in a trainer double creates a value play that should pay in the $12-16 range on a $2 ticket, well worth the investment as a complement to the straight exacta box.

The best trifecta structure on the card is Race 3, the 12-horse turf optional claimer. Using Bonfiglio (POST 1) on top, Daw Samaa (POST 6) and Metatron (POST 3) in second, and spreading to four or five horses in third — including Cafe La Paix (POST 4), Lord Donegal (POST 8), and Don't Copy Me (POST 12) — creates a trifecta with a realistic shot at a significant payout in a full field of twelve on the turf.

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