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Delaware Park – Pick Pony Handicapper Report & Tip Sheet – News and Analysis for the September 23, 2026 card

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The Pick Pony Handicapper's Report is published daily and provides analysis of all races on the card. A Pick Pony analyst prepares the report, so selections may differ from the Pick Pony Expert Picks, which are based on the consensus of all Pick Pony analysts.

 

Do our stated chances come true?

Every horse our AI Win Probability model rated, grouped by the chance we gave it, against how often that group actually won.

What we saidWhat happened
0%16%32%47%63%3%7%13%18%26%38%What we said — 3.4%What we said — 7.4%What we said — 12.5%What we said — 18.0%What we said — 25.6%What we said — 38.3%What we saidWhat happened — 2.5%What happened — 7.0%What happened — 13.6%What happened — 21.7%What happened — 31.6%What happened — 51.1%What happened

Where the two lines meet, the published percentage was exactly right.

Show the numbers
WeekWhat we saidWhat happened
3%3.4%2.5%
7%7.4%7.0%
13%12.5%13.6%
18%18.0%21.7%
26%25.6%31.6%
38%38.3%51.1%

Delaware Park — Race Day Overview: September 23, 2026

Delaware Park closes in on the final stretch of its 2026 meet with an eight-race Tuesday card that leans heavily on claiming and maiden claiming company, with one maiden special weight event standing out as the marquee race of the afternoon. The card offers a blend of route and sprint distances, all on the main dirt surface, setting up a day where pace figures and class evaluation will drive the handicapping process.

The story circling Delaware Park's barn area this week continues to be trainer Michael Simone, whose remarkable campaign with the former $8,000 claimer Micanopy in the Pennsylvania Derby captured widespread attention heading into the weekend. That momentum carries into today's card, where Simone sends out entries in Race 3, Race 4, Race 5, and Race 7 — making him one of the most active conditioners on the grounds for this Tuesday program. His current hot form at the meet makes every Simone runner worth a close look regardless of price.

Trainer Kravets Bruce M also features prominently across the card with horses entered in three separate races, as does the Lopez Pascacio-Rodriguez Jamie jockey combination, which figures to contest several of the key races. The Jaclyn Reed barn is active as well, with multiple starters spread across the maiden ranks.

The Race 6 maiden special weight at six and a half furlongs is the class race of the day, carrying a $45,000 purse and featuring a pair of morning-line co-favorites at 2-1 that will define the exotic wagering structure for the entire card.

Weather and Track Conditions

September in northern Delaware typically brings mild to warm afternoon temperatures, and the late-September forecast for the Stanton oval points to partly cloudy skies with temperatures in the low-to-mid 70s at post time. Afternoon humidity remains moderate. No significant precipitation is anticipated for the Tuesday card, and the Delaware Park main track is expected to be listed as fast.

The Delaware Park racing surface has shown consistent maintenance throughout the fall meet. The main track has been playing fair and honest over the past several racing days, with no dramatic wet-weather distortions to the strip. Bettors should note that the track is a standard one-mile oval and that route races are run around two turns from various starting chutes.

Track Bias and Post Position Analysis

Delaware Park's main dirt surface during the fall meet has generally been playing fair, with no pronounced speed or closer bias dominating results. That said, the one-turn sprint configurations have historically shown a mild inside-to-middle post position advantage, particularly in races going six and a half furlongs where early position out of the gate can allow horses to establish rail-friendly positioning through the first turn.

In the two-turn route races on today's card (Races 1, 3, and 7), outside posts carry more neutralized disadvantage given the additional run to the first turn from the chute. Route races at Delaware Park have rewarded horses that can secure a comfortable stalking position early, as the stretch run at Delaware is a honest test that tends to sort out horses based on true ability rather than track configuration.

For today's card, no strong rail or speed bias has been reported in recent days. Post positions in the one-turn sprints should be assessed in the context of each horse's running style and how the pace scenarios develop, rather than as a categorical disadvantage.

RACE 1 — Post (12:38)/11:38/10:38/9:38 — 1830f | D | C | Clm 8000n2l | BUN | Purse $15,000

This is a one-mile-and-an-eighth maiden claiming event for non-winners of two lifetime restricted to older males, going around two turns on the dirt for a $15,000 purse. The non-winners-of-two condition eliminates prior winners, which levels the field somewhat but also means many of these entrants are chronic maiden types or horses just off a first career victory. The claiming price of $8,000 places this squarely at the lower end of the Delaware claiming ladder. Expect plenty of pace uncertainty in a field where several entrants have shown front-running tendencies at this level.

Pace Analysis

The route distance at nine furlongs on the dirt should see a relatively honest pace develop. Fratellone (4) and Lucky Larry (6) are the two most likely pace-setters in this field based on their morning-line positioning and trainer-jockey assignments. If either of these two gets loose on the front end without pressure, the race devolves into a gate-to-wire scenario that punishes closers. Drop Me A Dime (8) figures to be rate-oriented and benefits if the early fractions are contested. Moral Power (1) from the rail could also push the pace early if pressed.

Key Contenders

Fratellone (4) draws the attention of the morning line makers at 2-1, the clear favorite in this field. Trained by Wayne Potts and ridden by Jamie Rodriguez, this horse carries the advantage of a strong rider-trainer partnership that has been productive at the meet. At the $8,000 non-winners-of-two level going long, Potts runners at Delaware tend to be well-spotted when installed as the favorite, and the 2-1 price reflects genuine class within this restricted field. The two-turn distance suits horses with enough tactical speed to control the pace early, and Fratellone (4) projects as the lone speed or co-speed threat.

Lucky Larry (6), trained by Daniel Velazquez and ridden by Teshawn Hazelwood, opens at 4-1 on the morning line and represents legitimate value if Fratellone (4) encounters any early trouble or breaks poorly. Lucky Larry (6) has the look of a horse that can put himself into the race early and use the two-turn configuration to his advantage. The 4-1 price is realistic given the competition.

Secondary Choices

Drop Me A Dime (8) is trained by Kelly Lynn Deiter and will be piloted by Pascacio Lopez. Opening at 4-1, this horse profiles as a pace-presser or stalker who could be sitting in a perfect tactical position if the early pace is hotly contested. Lopez has shown strong riding numbers throughout the meet and deserves credit as a factor at this distance. The outside post is a consideration in a two-turn route, but experienced riders like Lopez can compensate with early positioning.

Moral Power (1) from the rail is trained by Pedro Posadas and ridden by Ronaldo Rodriguez. The 8-1 morning line on the inside post is worth a token interest — the rail is not a disadvantage at Delaware in route races given the chute configuration, and a horse that can save ground early at nine furlongs from post one has a structural edge if the pace scenario sets up correctly.

Longshots

Soo Handsome (2), trained by Beverly Strauss with Barrington Bell aboard at 8-1, is a horse that has been lurking in similar company. The trainer is less prominent at this meet, and Soo Handsome (2) lacks the rider or trainer credentials that would make this an aggressive play.

Daytona Moonshine (3) at 10-1 under trainer Enrique Hernandez and rider Marvin Fernandez faces a stiff ask at nine furlongs with nothing particularly compelling in the morning line assignment.

Booted Up (5), trained by Everton Smith with Ajhari Williams up at 10-1, is difficult to assess favorably without a standout performance record in this company. Pass.

Zaino (7) at 15-1 under Johnathon Fearon and Jose A Batista is the longest price in the field and represents a true longshot that would require something dramatically wrong with the favorites to land in the exotics.

Selections

Win: Fratellone (4) Place: Lucky Larry (6) Show: Drop Me A Dime (8)

Betting Strategy: Single Fratellone (4) in win with a small wheel in the exacta boxing Fratellone (4) and Lucky Larry (6) with Drop Me A Dime (8) underneath for trifecta coverage. The 2-1 price on the favorite is modest but defensible given his rider-trainer advantage in a thin field.

RACE 2 — Post (1:17)/12:17/11:17/10:17 — 1320f | D | M | Md 10000 | AOF | Purse $16,000

A six-and-a-half-furlong maiden claiming sprint for fillies and mares at a $10,000 tag carrying a $16,000 purse. The all-other-fillies condition opens the race to a mixed age group, which can complicate pace and class assessment. Mario Roberto Lopez trains the top two in the morning line — Hey Sara Yougotit (1) and Misseleanor (2) — a barn double that will drive significant attention in the win pool and complicate exacta wagering.

Pace Analysis

With the Lopez barn sending out two runners likely to be controlled by the same conditioning philosophy, there is a question of whether one or both will be pressed early. Kwan (6), the 2-1 morning-line favorite trained by Gregory D Sacco and ridden by Pascacio Lopez, is expected to be forwardly placed and could control the pace from the favorable middle post. The six-and-a-half-furlong distance is a true test of early speed and closing ability, and Sacco's maiden runners at this level tend to be fit and ready.

Key Contenders

Kwan (6) is the standout play here. Gregory Sacco is a trainer with a strong national reputation for developing maiden runners, and the 2-1 morning line reflects a well-regarded entry. With Pascacio Lopez in the irons, Kwan (6) has a top-tier rider who has been among the leaders at the meet. From post six in a six-and-a-half-furlong sprint, this filly can find a comfortable tactical position without being too far back. Sacco's ability to spot horses favorably in maiden claiming company is well-documented, and this is the race where handicappers should lean hard on the favorite.

Hey Sara Yougotit (1) at 3-1 has the rail and Sara Hess up. As the stablemate to Misseleanor (2), the stable will likely key on one or the other, and the lower morning-line price suggests Hey Sara Yougotit (1) is the barn's preferred runner. Rail posts in six-and-a-half-furlong sprints at Delaware require a clean break and the ability to clear to the front or settle on the inside without traffic trouble.

Secondary Choices

Misseleanor (2) at 4-1 with Emanuel Rosario aboard from the same Lopez barn is a secondary play that works best in the exacta and trifecta. Rosario is one of the more accomplished riders on today's card and brings a class dimension that elevates the chances of this runner. The question of which Lopez horse runs best on the day is answered at the gate.

Nance's Notion (4), trained by Jaclyn J Reed with Jose R Betancourt riding at 8-1, is a horse from a barn that is active on today's card. Reed has shown competency in placing maiden claimers at Delaware, and Nance's Notion (4) is a horse that could fire a big effort at a price.

Longshots

Happy Encounter (3) at 8-1 under Jonathan Maldonado and Wilfredo Corujo has drawn enough morning-line respect to suggest some ability but lacks a defining edge over Kwan (6) or the Lopez barn.

Smokie Mist (7) at 8-1 is Reed's second entry in this race alongside Nance's Notion (4), with J S Rocco Jr up. Two horses from the same barn create interesting dynamics — if the barn expects one to win, the other may be a cover play in the exacta at price.

Its My Decision (5) at 10-1 under Pedro Nazario and Paul A Luna is a double-digit price that will be difficult to prioritize in a field with established favorites.

Selections

Win: Kwan (6) Place: Hey Sara Yougotit (1) Show: Misseleanor (2)

Betting Strategy: Kwan (6) is the clear key. Use Kwan (6) on top of exactas with Hey Sara Yougotit (1) and Misseleanor (2). In the trifecta, use Kwan (6) on top, the Lopez barn pair in second, and include Nance's Notion (4) as a value underneath.

RACE 3 — Post (1:47)/12:47/11:47/10:47 — 1830f | D | C | Clm 6250 | BUN | Purse $19,000

Nine-furlong claiming race for $6,250 restricted to non-winners of two lifetime, carded for males. The $19,000 purse is healthy for this level at Delaware. This race features nine entrants, which creates competitive exotics but also introduces significant pace questions. The Simone barn, fresh off the Micanopy spotlight, sends out Collection Day (5) as the morning-line favorite, while Final Drama (7) and Good As He Gets (1) emerge as legitimate threats.

Pace Analysis

With nine horses going a mile and an eighth, pace will be critical. Collection Day (5) from post five with Jamie Rodriguez up figures to be forwardly placed given the Simone barn's current form tendencies. Good As He Gets (1) from the rail under Pascacio Lopez will also want a forward position from the inside. The two-turn configuration could set up for a pace meltdown if multiple speed horses battle early, which would benefit a closer like Kerness (8) under Emanuel Rosario if the fractions get hot.

Key Contenders

Collection Day (5) at 2-1 is the play. Michael Simone's current momentum at the meet — punctuated by the national attention on Micanopy — carries real weight on the handicapper's decision-making chart. Collection Day (5) is well-spotted at $6,250 non-winners-of-two after what figures to be a measured campaign designed to find the right spot. Jamie Rodriguez, among the top riders at Delaware this meet, gives Collection Day (5) the tactical advantage from mid-post.

Good As He Gets (1) at 4-1 with Pascacio Lopez from the rail is the horse most likely to challenge Collection Day (5) for the early lead. Lopez is an elite riding choice at this level, and a horse on the front end from post one at nine furlongs can save significant ground through two turns. If Good As He Gets (1) gets a clear path to the front, this becomes a wire-to-wire scenario.

Secondary Choices

Final Drama (7) at 4-1 under Victor Carrasco Jr with Jesus M Rios up is a legitimate co-contender. At even money with the favorites, Final Drama (7) represents the value play in this race. The 4-1 price is the same as Good As He Gets (1), and handicappers are split on which of these two represents a bigger threat to Collection Day (5).

Kerness (8) at 6-1 under Wayne Potts with Emanuel Rosario is a horse that figures to be closing from off the pace. Potts has a strong record at Delaware and Rosario's experience makes Kerness (8) dangerous in any scenario where the pace gets hot early. At 6-1, this is the best exotic value in the race.

Longshots

Uninvited Guest (2) at 8-1 under Timothy C Kreiser and R Chiappe faces a stiff task but represents a price that could return value in trifecta structures if the two favorites encounter trouble.

Bold Ambition (9) at 12-1 under Bruce M Kravets and Jose R Betancourt is one of two Kravets runners in this race alongside Midnight Onyx (4) at 12-1 under Marvin Fernandez. The barn is active but neither starter has morning-line credentials suggesting front-running ability in this spot.

Midnight Onyx (4) at 12-1 is in the same boat — a Kravets runner that figures to need pace help to be competitive at nine furlongs in this company.

Morning Thoughts (6) at 10-1 under Rodolfo Sanchez-Salomon and Jevian Toledo represents a recognizable jockey at a price. Toledo is a capable rider, and Morning Thoughts (6) is worth a small slice in the trifecta.

Waldrip (3) at 15-1 under Charles A Demario and Raul E Mena is the longest price among the contenders and is best left to wheel-all exotic strategies.

Selections

Win: Collection Day (5) Place: Good As He Gets (1) Show: Kerness (8)

Betting Strategy: Collection Day (5) is the single. Box Collection Day (5), Good As He Gets (1), and Final Drama (7) in the exacta. For trifecta, use Collection Day (5) on top with those three and Kerness (8) underneath.

RACE 4 — Post (2:28)/1:28/12:28/11:28 — 1210f | D | M | Md 8000 | BUM | Purse $14,000

Six furlongs for maiden claiming fillies and mares at $8,000, with a $14,000 purse. Eleven horses enter, making this the largest field on the card. Mom Esterina (10) is the heavy 2-1 morning-line favorite and is trained by Kelly Lynn Deiter, who also saddled Drop Me A Dime (8) in Race 1. The deep field creates excellent exotic wagering opportunities. Michael Simone sends out She's A Canny Lass (1) from the rail with Jamie Rodriguez, another reason to pay attention to the Simone barn early in the card.

Pace Analysis

Eleven horses in a six-furlong sprint guarantees that the first fraction will be competitive. She's A Canny Lass (1) with Rodriguez from the rail figures to be sent early. Mom Esterina (10) from the outside post in a large field of mares is a concern from a tactical standpoint — ten post in a six-furlong sprint requires either exceptional early speed or willingness to settle and close, and outside posts in sprint fields of this size at Delaware carry a measurable disadvantage. G G's Treasure (5), Kazillion (6), and Love In The Hills (7) will all be pressing forward, setting up a potentially heated early pace.

Key Contenders

Mom Esterina (10) is the morning-line choice at 2-1 and carries the burden of post ten in an eleven-horse field. Deiter is a capable trainer, and Pascacio Lopez in the saddle provides the riding quality to overcome the post disadvantage. The question is whether Mom Esterina (10) has the raw speed to clear the field from the outside in a six-furlong sprint and still have enough left to hold on.

She's A Canny Lass (1) at 4-1 from the Simone barn with Jamie Rodriguez is the primary threat. The rail in a six-furlong sprint is a structural advantage when a horse can break well and find the fence. Simone's current form makes this runner particularly dangerous, and Rodriguez's ability to guide horses from tight inside posts is well-established.

Secondary Choices

Kazillion (6) at 8-1 under Clyde W Martin with Jose R Betancourt is worth noting. Betancourt has been busy and effective throughout the meet, and a horse at 8-1 with a competent rider and trainer from a mid-field post carries legitimate trifecta value.

G G's Treasure (5) at 8-1 under Roque R Romero and Marvin Fernandez is another mid-price option. Fernandez gets a lot of action on today's card, and G G's Treasure (5) at 8-1 offers trifecta upside.

Love In The Hills (7) at 8-1 under Cesareo Marquez and Edgar Villasmil is another 8-1 shot in a field where the morning-line is clustered between several runners.

Longshots

Mi Amol (9) at 8-1 under Josue Arce and Jose A Batista figures to need a perfect trip in a large, competitive field.

Lorelai (11) at 15-1 under Kelsie Shotzberger and Gavin Ashton is a longshot that figures to need significant pace help.

Code Name Maisie (2) at 20-1 under Jaclyn J Reed and J S Rocco Jr carries the highest morning-line price alongside two other 20-1 shots.

Lend Creedence (3) at 20-1 under Jose S Rodriguez and Carol Cedeno is another 20-1 shot with a rider who is less active at the meet.

Hart Of Coupella (4) at 20-1 under Herold O Whylie and Shirle Yancapallo Gomocio is best used as part of a wide trifecta structure at best.

Julies Mandolin (8) at 20-1 under Nesvil Hernan Bailon and Emanuel Rosario is interesting only because of Rosario's riding ability. Even the best rider cannot overcome 20-1 morning-line odds in a race this deep without an exceptional run.

Selections

Win: Mom Esterina (10) Place: She's A Canny Lass (1) Show: Kazillion (6)

Betting Strategy: Given the large field, the trifecta and superfecta are the primary wagering vehicles. Use Mom Esterina (10) and She's A Canny Lass (1) as the top two in multi-race exotics. The superfecta offers value by including Kazillion (6), G G's Treasure (5), and Love In The Hills (7) in the third and fourth slots.

RACE 5 — Post (2:59)/1:59/12:59/11:59 — 1320f | D | C | Clm 5000b | BUN | Purse $16,000

Six-and-a-half furlongs for claimers at the $5,000 bottom claiming level, restricted to males. The “b” designation indicates this is a conditioned claimer with specific eligibility restrictions. Nine horses enter, with Megan's Honor (5) as the 2-1 morning-line favorite from Michael Simone's barn, and Federal Exchange (2) at 3-1 as the primary challenger. Simone's barn once again demands attention in this spot.

Pace Analysis

Nano Man (1) from the Simone barn at 4-1 and Federal Exchange (2) at 3-1 project as the early pace setters in a six-and-a-half-furlong sprint. The barn sends both Nano Man (1) and Megan's Honor (5) — a classic Simone tactical deployment where one horse controls the pace and the other stalks and runs. If that scenario unfolds, Megan's Honor (5) at 2-1 becomes even more dangerous as a closer with a pace setup provided by a barnmate.

Key Contenders

Megan's Honor (5) is the play at 2-1. The Simone barn's current form at Delaware, combined with Pascacio Lopez in the saddle, is the defining angle. At the $5,000 bottom claimer level, horses that are dropping from a conditioned spot or entering with recent works and fresh fitness can dominate. Megan's Honor (5) with Lopez from post five is well-positioned to stalk the early pace and roll past a contested pace battle.

Federal Exchange (2) at 3-1 under Josue Arce and Cipriano Gil is the primary challenger. Arce has runners spread across today's card, suggesting an active, engaged stable that is looking to win races. GIL is a capable journeyman rider who knows the Delaware strip. Federal Exchange (2) from post two in a six-and-a-half-furlong sprint is well-positioned for early tactical placement.

Secondary Choices

Nano Man (1) at 4-1 from the Simone barn with Jamie Rodriguez on the rail is a stablemate of Megan's Honor (5) and creates the internal pace scenario that could favor the favorite. Nano Man (1) should be respected in the exacta given the shared trainer advantage.

Rob The Rich (3) at 8-1 under Bruce M Kravets and Yabriel O Ramos is an interesting outsider. Kravets is active across the card today, and at 8-1 with a horse that may be overlooked, Rob The Rich (3) offers trifecta value.

Longshots

Trophy Room (4) at 15-1 under Erin C McClellan and Gavin Ashton is one of two McClellan entries alongside Harbor Of Gold (6) at 10-1. McClellan sends two horses in this race, and Harbor Of Gold (6) with Jose R Betancourt at 10-1 is the more appealing of the two given the jockey booking.

Mr. Squeaky Wheels (7) at 12-1 under Mario Roberto Lopez and Ronaldo Rodriguez is a double-digit price that figures to need a pace collapse to factor prominently.

Aaraj (8) at 12-1 under Kravets and Marvin Fernandez is a second Kravets runner at this level. At 12-1, Aaraj (8) is a deep exotic play only.

City Panda (9) at 15-1 under Alejandro Olais Mendieta and Jorge Panaijo is the outsider in the field and best left to wheel-all structures.

Selections

Win: Megan's Honor (5) Place: Federal Exchange (2) Show: Nano Man (1)

Betting Strategy: The Simone double with Nano Man (1) setting pace for Megan's Honor (5) is a compelling angle. Key Megan's Honor (5) in win with exacta coverage using Federal Exchange (2) and Nano Man (1) underneath. The trifecta is best structured with Megan's Honor (5) on top, Federal Exchange (2) and Nano Man (1) second, and Rob The Rich (3) or Harbor Of Gold (6) third.

RACE 6 — Post (3:30)/2:30/1:30/12:30 — 1320f | D | S | Md Sp Wt | BUN | Purse $45,000

Six-and-a-half furlongs on the dirt for maiden special weight males. This is the race of the day at Delaware Park, carrying a $45,000 purse — more than double any other race on the card. When We Do We Do (4) and James (5) share the 2-1 morning-line favorite billing, making this a two-horse race on paper. Wholelotoftrouble (6) at 4-1 is the logical alternative, and the three longer-priced horses round out a compact field.

Pace Analysis

In a six-horse field going six and a half furlongs at the maiden special weight level, pace will be set by whoever breaks best from the gate. When We Do We Do (4) under J Pimentel from trainer Jorge Duarte Jr and James (5) from the Stidham barn with Pascacio Lopez are both likely to be close to the early pace or controlling it. Wholelotoftrouble (6) from trainer Carlos E Caban with Luis M Ocasio figures to be in behind, waiting to make a run. The key pace question is whether When We Do We Do (4) or James (5) sets the tone, or if one concedes ground and tracks the other.

Key Contenders

James (5) is the stronger play of the two co-favorites. Michael Stidham is a Grade 1-winning trainer with a strong record in maiden special weight events, and a Stidham runner at a mid-Atlantic track carrying 2-1 morning-line odds is serious business. Pascacio Lopez is one of the meet's premier riders, and the combination of a top-shelf national trainer and a leading local jockey makes James (5) the most appealing selection in the race. Post five in a six-horse field at six and a half furlongs is a workable position.

When We Do We Do (4) from trainer Jorge Duarte Jr and jockey J Pimentel is the co-favorite that deserves respect. Duarte has been developing horses at Delaware and the 2-1 morning line is not accidental — this horse figures to be forwardly placed and capable of making James (5) work for every inch of the victory.

Secondary Choices

Wholelotoftrouble (6) at 4-1 under Carlos E Caban and Luis M Ocasio is the most natural alternative in a six-horse field. At 4-1, the price represents genuine value if either of the co-favorites fails to deliver at 2-1. Wholelotoftrouble (6) from the outside post in a six-horse field is not a significant disadvantage at six and a half furlongs.

Yauprissy (3) at 6-1 under Terri Pompay and Cipriano Gil is a mid-price option worth including in trifectas. Pompay is a trainer who occasionally fires at prices in maiden special weight company, and Yauprissy (3) at 6-1 is not without merit.

Longshots

Hands Up Style (1) at 8-1 under Flint W Stites and Wilfredo Corujo from the rail is the kind of horse that could steal the show with a perfect break from post one in a short field, but the morning-line price suggests limited expectations from the handicapping community.

Oath And Honour (2) at 12-1 under Kelsie Shotzberger and Jose A Batista is the longest price in the field and would require a significant performance improvement to factor.

Selections

Win: James (5) Place: When We Do We Do (4) Show: Wholelotoftrouble (6)

Betting Strategy: This is the race to bet bigger. Key James (5) in win and use the exacta box of James (5) and When We Do We Do (4). In the trifecta, use James (5) on top with When We Do We Do (4) and Wholelotoftrouble (6) underneath in all combinations. The $45,000 purse and quality of the Stidham barn makes this the anchor race for any multi-race exotic sequence.

RACE 7 — Post (4:03)/3:03/2:03/1:03 — 1760f | D | HO | ROC | BUM | Purse $26,000

A one-mile-and-an-eighth route on the dirt carded for older fillies and mares (the HOF designation combined with ROC indicates this is a restricted optional claiming event for fillies and mares). Bourbon N Lace (1) and Delray (3) share the 2-1 morning-line co-favorite status. This race features the most notable trainer-jockey matchup of the back half of the card. Simone sends out Miss Interpatation (4) with Pascacio Lopez, a combination worth strong consideration given today's barn form.

Pace Analysis

In a six-horse field going nine furlongs, the pace scenario is critical. Bourbon N Lace (1) under trainer Michael E Gorham and jockey Madeline Rowland and Delray (3) under Jamie Ness and Jamie Rodriguez are likely to set or press the pace from the favorable inside posts. Luminous Secret (5) under Kieron Magee and Jose A Batista will be tactical. Miss Interpatation (4) under Simone and Lopez will stalk and run. If the two co-favorites engage each other early in a route race for fillies and mares, the door opens for a strong closer.

Key Contenders

Delray (3) at 2-1 under the Ness barn is the more compelling of the two co-favorites. Jamie Ness is a seasoned trainer with a strong record in route races for fillies and mares at Delaware, and Rodriguez in the saddle provides a top-shelf riding complement. Delray (3) from post three on the inside has the tactical advantage in a six-horse field and should be able to track the pace and make a run.

Bourbon N Lace (1) at 2-1 under Michael E Gorham with Madeline Rowland is a legitimate co-favorite. Gorham's filly has shown enough to be installed at 2-1, and the inside post is a structural advantage in a route. The question is whether Bourbon N Lace (1) will get into a pace duel with Delray (3) and both emerge compromised.

Secondary Choices

Miss Interpatation (4) at 8-1 under Michael Simone and Pascacio Lopez is the value play of the race. The Simone barn's current form is the overriding angle on today's card, and Miss Interpatation (4) at 8-1 — with Lopez in the irons and a route distance that suits a stalker-closer type — offers the best price-to-ability ratio in Race 7. Exotic players should key this horse under the co-favorites.

Luminous Secret (5) at 6-1 under Kieron Magee and Jose A Batista is worth trifecta inclusion. Magee is a capable conditioner, and Luminous Secret (5) at 6-1 in a six-horse field has enough morning-line support to suggest genuine ability.

Longshots

Ginger Girl (2) at 4-1 under Joanne Shankle and Raul E Mena is not truly a longshot at 4-1 and deserves mention as a price alternative. Mena is an active rider at the meet, and Ginger Girl (2) could figure in the trifecta if the pace collapses in front.

Dynamic Actress (6) at 8-1 under Nesvil Hernan Bailon and Martin Chuan is the widest price in the field and will need a perfect pace scenario to be involved at the end.

Selections

Win: Delray (3) Place: Bourbon N Lace (1) Show: Miss Interpatation (4)

Betting Strategy: Use Miss Interpatation (4) as the primary value key in the exacta under Delray (3). At 8-1, the Simone-Lopez combination presents a juicy overlay. Trifecta: Delray (3) and Bourbon N Lace (1) on top, Miss Interpatation (4) and Luminous Secret (5) underneath.

RACE 8 — Post (4:36)/3:36/2:36/1:36 — 1320f | D | C | Clm 6250 | BUM | Purse $19,000

Six-and-a-half furlongs of claiming action for fillies and mares at $6,250 to close the card. Three Polks (7) at 2-1 is the morning-line favorite under Brandon L Kulp and Angel R Rodriguez. Combat Hoofs (6) at 3-1 and Miss Neo (3) at 5-1 round out the top of the market. Bruce M Kravets sends two runners — Cloud In The Wind (4) and Combat Hoofs (6) — giving the barn a strong presence in this nightcap.

Pace Analysis

In a seven-horse sprint at six and a half furlongs, Combat Hoofs (6) under Kravets and Yabriel O Ramos figures to be the primary early pace setter along with Miss Neo (3) under Pompeyo Gomez and Sebastian Orellana. Three Polks (7) from the outside post under trainer Kulp and rider Angel R Rodriguez will need to find coverage quickly or work wide throughout. Infastuation (5) under Carlos M Sepulveda and Carol Cedeno is likely to be tactical from inside.

Key Contenders

Three Polks (7) at 2-1 is the morning-line favorite from the outside post. Brandon L Kulp has been effective at Delaware, and Angel R Rodriguez is a capable rider who can navigate an outside post with experienced tactics. The concern is the wide post draw in a seven-horse field at six and a half furlongs — outside post seven means early hustle or a wide trip throughout.

Combat Hoofs (6) at 3-1 from the Kravets barn with Yabriel O Ramos is the most natural challenger. Kravets has been active across the card today, and Combat Hoofs (6) at 3-1 in the closer of the day is a horse the barn likely regards as ready to run. From post six, Combat Hoofs (6) has slightly more favorable positioning than Three Polks (7) in a seven-horse field.

Secondary Choices

Miss Neo (3) at 5-1 under Pompeyo Gomez and Sebastian Orellana is the best mid-price option in the field. Post three from the inside rail area in a six-and-a-half-furlong sprint is one of the most favorable positions on the Delaware strip, and Miss Neo (3) at 5-1 represents genuine value relative to the 2-1 and 3-1 choices.

Infastuation (5) at 6-1 under Carlos M Sepulveda and Carol Cedeno is a second Sepulveda entry alongside Magnolia Wind (1) at 10-1. Infastuation (5) at 6-1 carries more morning-line support and figures to be the stable's primary runner.

Longshots

Cloud In The Wind (4) at 8-1 under Kravets and Marvin Fernandez is the second Kravets runner in this race. With Combat Hoofs (6) as the barn's primary runner, Cloud In The Wind (4) figures to be the secondary ticket. Fernandez has been on a lot of horses today.

Mabee Luckynwild (2) at 8-1 under Pedro Nazario and Ronaldo Rodriguez is an outsider that will need a contested pace to fire at a price.

Magnolia Wind (1) at 10-1 under Carlos M Sepulveda and Emanuel Rosario from the rail is a long price from the same barn as Infastuation (5). Rosario is a quality rider, but 10-1 on a horse that figures to be the barn's secondary entry is tough to recommend strongly.

Selections

Win: Three Polks (7) Place: Combat Hoofs (6) Show: Miss Neo (3)

Betting Strategy: Use Three Polks (7) on top of exactas with Combat Hoofs (6) and Miss Neo (3). Miss Neo (3) at 5-1 is the best value in the closing race of the card. Trifecta: Three Polks (7) on top, Combat Hoofs (6) and Miss Neo (3) second and third in all combinations.

Jockey Notes and Insights

Pascacio Lopez is the most important rider to track on today's Delaware Park card. He has bookings in Race 1 (DROP ME A DIME, Post 8), Race 2 (KWAN, Post 6), Race 3 (GOOD AS HE GETS, Post 1), Race 5 (MEGAN'S HONOR, Post 5), Race 6 (JAMES, Post 5), and Race 7 (MISS INTERPATATION, Post 4). That six-race commitment suggests Lopez is at or near the top of the meet standings and that trainers across the barn area are competing for his services. His presence on James (5) in the maiden special weight and Megan's Honor (5) in the $5,000 claimer makes those races particularly attractive wagering opportunities.

Jamie Rodriguez is the second most active rider today with bookings in Race 1 (FRATELLONE, Post 4), Race 3 (COLLECTION DAY, Post 5), Race 4 (SHE'S A CANNY LASS, Post 1), Race 5 (NANO MAN, Post 1), and Race 7 (DELRAY, Post 3). Rodriguez's alignment with the Simone barn across multiple races is a strong tell for today's card. When a meet leader like Rodriguez is booked multiple times by the same trainer, it carries extra weight.

Emanuel Rosario has mounts in Race 2 (MISSELEANOR, Post 2), Race 3 (KERNESS, Post 8), Race 4 (JULIES MANDOLIN, Post 8), and Race 8 (MAGNOLIA WIND, Post 1). Rosario's experience level adds value to each of these horses, particularly Kerness (8) in Race 3 as a closer.

Jose A Batista is active in Race 1 (ZAINO, Post 7), Race 2 (OATH AND HONOUR, Post 2), Race 6 (OATH AND HONOUR, Post 2… note: appearing also in Race 7 as LUMINOUS SECRET, Post 5), and Race 7 (LUMINOUS SECRET, Post 5). Batista is a competent rider who can be dangerous at longer prices.

Marvin Fernandez has four bookings across the card in Races 3, 4, 5, and 8, serving as the primary Kravets barn rider. His volume of work today reflects his standing at the meet.

Trainer Notes and Insights

Michael Simone is the trainer story of the day. Coming off the national attention generated by Micanopy's entry in the Pennsylvania Derby — a horse he claimed for $8,000 in April — Simone has four barns represented on today's card: Collection Day (5) in Race 3, She's A Canny Lass (1) in Race 4, Nano Man (1) and Megan's Honor (5) in Race 5, and Miss Interpatation (4) in Race 7. A trainer in this kind of spotlight typically brings horses to the track sharp and focused. Simone's decision to use Jamie Rodriguez and Pascacio Lopez across his runners underscores the seriousness of today's card.

Bruce M Kravets is the most active trainer on the card by sheer number of entries, with horses in Race 3 (MIDNIGHT ONYX, Post 4 and BOLD AMBITION, Post 9), Race 5 (ROB THE RICH, Post 3 and AARAJ, Post 8), and Race 8 (CLOUD IN THE WIND, Post 4 and COMBAT HOOFS, Post 6). Kravets is a Delaware Park staple who consistently places horses in competitive spots, and his dual entries give bettors the clue that the barn expects at least one to fire in each race.

Kelly Lynn Deiter trains Drop Me A Dime (8) in Race 1 and Mom Esterina (10) in Race 4, the 2-1 morning-line favorite in the large maiden claiming field. If Deiter's barn is firing on all cylinders, Mom Esterina (10) carries barn momentum into the afternoon.

Jaclyn J Reed saddles Nance's Notion (4) and Smokie Mist (7) in Race 2, and Code Name Maisie (2) in Race 4. Multiple entries from Reed in the maiden ranks suggest an active stable that is running horses through conditions to find the right spot.

Mario Roberto Lopez trains Hey Sara Yougotit (1) and Misseleanor (2) in Race 2, a barn double that will define the wagering pool dynamics in that race. When a trainer sends two starters in the same race, exotic bettors should use both in wide formations.

Gregory D Sacco, who trains Kwan (6) in Race 2, brings a national reputation to the Delaware grounds. Sacco-trained maiden runners tend to be fit and well-prepared, and the 2-1 morning line on Kwan (6) reflects genuine confidence from the handicapping community.

Michael Stidham trains James (5) in Race 6. Stidham's presence at Delaware with a maiden special weight runner in the card's highest-purse event is a significant fact. National trainers do not ship to Delaware for the fun of it — they come when they believe they have a horse that fits the conditions and can win. James (5) should be treated as one of the top selections on the entire card.

Best Wagering Strategies and Value Plays

The best single-race value on today's card is Miss Interpatation (4) at 8-1 in Race 7. The Simone barn's current form is undeniable, and Pascacio Lopez guiding a Simone runner at 8-1 in a six-horse field against a pair of 2-1 co-favorites is the definition of an overlay. If bettors single any horse on the card at price, Miss Interpatation (4) is the selection.

The second-best value play is Kwan (6) at 2-1 in Race 2. Gregory Sacco's presence at Delaware with this runner is enough to make Kwan (6) a confident single in multi-race sequences despite the modest return.

For the Pick 4 covering Races 5 through 8, the recommended structure is:

Race 5: Megan's Honor (5) single or double with Federal Exchange (2) Race 6: James (5) with a backup on When We Do We Do (4) Race 7: Delray (3) and Miss Interpatation (4) (use both given the value angle) Race 8: Three Polks (7) and Combat Hoofs (6)

This structure using two horses in Race 7 and two in Race 8 costs a manageable investment while maximizing coverage in the two most competitive legs of the sequence. The key is keeping James (5) as a single in Race 6 where the Stidham barn provides the confidence to go one-deep and allocate more tickets to the competitive finisher races.

The Pick 3 covering Races 6, 7, and 8 at the condensed $.50 minimum base is the recommended daily double investment on this card. Use James (5) with When We Do We Do (4) in Race 6, Delray (3) with Miss Interpatation (4) in Race 7, and Three Polks (7) with Combat Hoofs (6) in Race 8. An eight-ticket combination at $1 per ticket is a reasonable investment for this closing sequence.

The best exacta on the card is Race 3, boxing Collection Day (5), Good As He Gets (1), and Kerness (8) in a three-horse exacta box. At 2-1, 4-1, and 6-1 respectively, the combination should return a healthy mutuel if any two of the three land in order.

For the entire card's multi-race sequences, treat the Simone barn as the dominant angle of the day. With entries in Races 3, 4, 5, and 7 — all with top jockeys and horses that figure to be competitive — building any Pick 4 or Pick 5 sequence around Simone runners gives today's bettors a structural edge that the general public is likely to undervalue.

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


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