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Penn National – Pick Pony Handicapper Report & Tip Sheet – News and Analysis for the June 26, 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.

 

Penn National Race Day Overview — Friday, June 26, 2026

Penn National kicks off its Friday evening card with a seven-race program featuring a mix of claiming, maiden, allowance, and optional claiming competition. The night's top race by purse value is Race 5, a $41,000 allowance for non-winners of a race other than maiden or claiming, which stands as the feature event. The bulk of the card is contested on the main dirt track, with the lone exception being Race 1, which is run on the turf course at a mile and a hundred yards. Claiming values range from $4,000 at the bottom of the card in Race 7 to $16,000 in the optional claiming in Race 2.

The notable news heading into this card is the provisional suspension of trainer Robert Rosado, reported by TDN on June 24, 2026, as part of the weekly HISA rulings roundup. Rosado does not appear on tonight's Penn National program, so the ruling carries no direct impact on tonight's entries.

Penn National runs a compact but competitive ship on Friday evenings, and several of the lower-level claiming races figure to produce tightly contested finishes. The $16,000 optional claimer in Race 2 draws only five horses but features an intriguing double entry from trainer Wayne Potts. The feature allowance in Race 5 brings seven horses to the gate for the richest purse of the night.

Weather and Track Conditions — Penn National, June 26, 2026

Penn National is located in Grantville, Pennsylvania, in the lower Susquehanna Valley region. Late June evenings in this part of central Pennsylvania typically feature warm and humid conditions, with daytime highs in the upper 80s to near 90 degrees Fahrenheit cooling modestly into the mid-70s by post time. The region has been prone to afternoon and early evening thunderstorm activity during this period of the summer, which can impact both the turf course and the main track.

Any afternoon storm activity prior to the 5:45 PM first post would be the primary variable to monitor for track condition changes. Penn National's main track tends to play firm and fast when dry, with a slight speed-favoring tendency in dry conditions. The turf course at Penn National is a well-maintained inner course that can become yielding or soft quickly if significant precipitation falls. Bettors should check for any late turf course scratch decisions in Race 1 if storms materialize before first post. A fast main track and firm turf are the base assumptions going into the card.

Track Bias and Post Position Analysis — Penn National

Penn National is a five-eighths-mile oval with relatively tight turns. On the dirt main track, speed horses tend to be advantaged when the track is fast and sealed, particularly in sprint races at six furlongs. The inside posts in sprints have historically been neutral to slightly advantageous, as horses can save ground through the first turn and down the backstretch. The rail at Penn National is not an extreme advantage at any claiming level, but horses with early foot that can get into a comfortable stalking position by the first turn have a consistent edge.

In longer dirt routes and on the turf, post position becomes more of a factor given the additional real estate to negotiate. Inside posts in turf routes at Penn National can be a modest advantage for closers if the field can spread out, while speed horses drawn to the outside in turf routes sometimes face difficulty getting cover in a field that strings out quickly.

At the bottom claiming levels that dominate tonight's card, pace scenarios often override post position effects. A single front-runner in a field of modest horses will frequently clear and dictate terms regardless of draw, and the track's compact shape rewards horses that can avoid traffic on the far turn.

For tonight's specific card, the six-furlong sprint distance dominates Races 2 through 7. Post positions 1 through 4 carry a slight to moderate advantage in these races based on Penn National's historical tendencies, particularly when a clear speed horse breaks from an inside post. Outside posts are not a severe disadvantage but require a wider path around both turns.

RACE 1 — Post (5:45)/4:45/3:45/2:45 — 1760f | T | C | Clm 10000n2l | BUM | Purse $17,000

This opening race is a one-mile turf claiming event restricted to horses that have not won two races lifetime, carrying a $10,000 claiming price and a $17,000 purse. Six horses enter. The non-winners-of-two-lifetime condition at a $10,000 claiming level on the turf at Penn National is a fairly modest spot, and the field is composed largely of horses with limited turf experience or horses making class drops to find a spot they can graduate from.

Race 1

Pace Analysis

With six horses over a mile on the turf, the early pace should be relatively honest. Richie's Valentine (1) and Yo Leven (3) both figure to be forwardly placed types based on their morning line positioning and their connections. Black Fly (4) as the morning line favorite likely has tactical ability. A moderate early pace on the turf figures to set up for something with tactical speed that can sit second or third and pounce turning for home. A true speed duel on the turf over a mile is unlikely given the modest class of the field, and closers will have a chance if the pace does compress early.

Key Contenders

Black Fly (4), trained by Brandon Kulp and ridden by Angel R. Rodriguez, is the morning line favorite at 2-1. Kulp is one of the more active trainers on the Penn National circuit and has solid numbers with horses at this claiming level. Rodriguez is a capable rider at this oval. The 2-1 morning line reflects genuine confidence from the morning line maker that this horse has the class edge in the field. At the n2l condition on the turf at $10,000, Black Fly (4) warrants top billing as the most likely winner based on trainer and jockey strength.

Yo Leven (3), trained by Jonathan Maldonado and ridden by Jomar Torres, is the second choice at 3-1. Maldonado has been active at Penn National and Torres is one of the more frequently used jockeys on the circuit. The 3-1 morning line suggests the horse is viewed as a legitimate contender, and Torres's familiarity with the track is an asset on a one-mile turf route where ground-saving positioning matters.

Secondary Choices

Richie's Valentine (1), trained by Sergio Rabadan and ridden by D. Cora, opens at 4-1. The rail post on the turf at Penn National over a mile can be advantageous for a horse with tactical speed that can break cleanly and settle just behind any early leaders. At 4-1, this represents fair value if the horse can find a clean trip from the rail. Cora is an experienced hand on this circuit.

Quiet City (5), trained by Elisha Rathman and ridden by Angel R. Quinones, also opens at 4-1. The outside post in a six-horse turf field over a mile is not ideal, but if the pace collapses or the inside horses get into a speed duel, Quiet City (5) could close into the picture. Rathman is a developing presence on the Penn National training circuit.

Longshots

Blonde Samaritan (2), trained by Jose A. Ramirez and ridden by Edilberto Dominguez, opens at 8-1. At the bottom of the morning line, this horse needs the field to collapse around them. The connections are capable at this level, but the 8-1 price reflects genuine doubts about competitive ability in this field.

Eleanor Rigby (6), trained by Eli Betancourt Jr. and ridden by Adam Bowman, opens at 8-1. A co-longest price in the field, Eleanor Rigby (6) would need significant help to factor. Betancourt has modest numbers at Penn National and Bowman is not among the leading riders at this oval. Best used only in horizontal exotics at long odds.

Selections

Win: Black Fly (4) Place: Yo Leven (3) Show: Richie's Valentine (1)

Betting Strategy: Black Fly (4) is a clear top choice at 2-1, and the exacta pairing of Black Fly (4) over Yo Leven (3) is the core wager. A small WIN bet on Yo Leven (3) at 3-1 is reasonable given the competitive morning line. Trifecta: 4 over 3 over 1,5. The 8-1 horses carry too much doubt to warrant trifecta inclusion beyond the third slot in wide structures.

RACE 2 — Post (6:14)/5:14/4:14/3:14 — 1320f | D | CO | OClm 16000 | BUM | Purse $21,000

Race 2 is a six-furlong optional claiming event at $16,000 on the main dirt, open to males, for a $21,000 purse. Only five horses enter, which makes this a manageable race to analyze. The optional claiming condition means horses can either be entered to be claimed or run in the optional portion, and this distinction can affect how seriously connections are running their horses.

The headline angle here is that trainer Wayne Potts saddles two of the five entrants: Gwen To Win (1) with Angel R. Rodriguez up at 4-1, and Crimson Red (2) with Sonny Leon up at 2-1. When a trainer enters two horses in the same race, the jockey assignments often signal which horse the barn favors. The better jockey assignment in this case goes to Crimson Red (2) with Leon, who is a quality rider. Potts appears to be giving the stronger signal toward Crimson Red (2).

Race 2

Pace Analysis

Five horses at six furlongs on a fast main track. Image Of Grace (5) at 3-1 and Gwen To Win (1) could both be early speed types, while Crimson Red (2) may stalk from just off the pace. Eleni (4) at 2-1 adds another co-favorite dynamic to the race. If Gwen To Win (1) and Image Of Grace (5) engage in a duel, the race sets up perfectly for a closer or stalker like Crimson Red (2) or Eleni (4).

Key Contenders

Crimson Red (2), trained by Wayne Potts and ridden by Sonny Leon, is the morning line favorite at 2-1. Leon is a skilled national-level rider who has worked Penn National and carries significant weight in terms of jockey confidence. In a same-barn entry scenario, Potts putting Leon on Crimson Red (2) is the clearest signal available. At 2-1, the price is fair for the top selection.

Eleni (4), trained by Paulina Sinnefia and ridden by D. Cora, is the co-morning-line favorite at 2-1. Sinnefia is a trainer worth watching at this circuit, and Cora is a solid jockey who knows Penn National well. A co-favorite in a five-horse field commands serious respect, and Eleni (4) appears well-placed in this spot.

Secondary Choices

Image Of Grace (5), trained by Todd M. Beattie and ridden by Vladimir Diaz, opens at 3-1. Beattie is among the busier trainers at Penn National and has horses that are competitive at the optional claiming level. Diaz gets the call here and has been active on this circuit. Image Of Grace (5) at 3-1 represents decent value in a five-horse field.

Longshots

Gwen To Win (1), trained by Wayne Potts and ridden by Angel R. Rodriguez, opens at 4-1. As the second string of the Potts entry, Gwen To Win (1) could theoretically be used as a pace setter to benefit Crimson Red (2), though in an optional claimer at this level, that scenario is not guaranteed. Rodriguez is capable, and if the horse gets loose on the lead, do not discount an upset.

No Argument (3), trained by Pamela Arnold and ridden by Wilfredo Corujo, opens at the longest price in the field at 6-1. Arnold has modest statistics at Penn National and Corujo is a journeyman rider. No Argument (3) will need the pace to collapse and a clean trip to factor, making this a marginal exotics inclusion.

Selections

Win: Crimson Red (2) Place: Eleni (4) Show: Image Of Grace (5)

Betting Strategy: Crimson Red (2) is the play based on the same-barn jockey assignment angle. The exacta of Crimson Red (2) over Eleni (4) is the primary wager. Reverse the exacta at a smaller amount. In a five-horse field, a small WIN bet on both co-favorites covering the base is reasonable. Gwen To Win (1) as a pace-setting option could be included third in trifectas.

RACE 3 — Post (6:43)/5:43/4:43/3:43 — 1320f | D | C | Clm 5000b | BUN | Purse $16,000

Race 3 is a six-furlong claiming race at $5,000 with a $16,000 purse, open to non-winners under the “b” conditions. Eight horses enter, making this a competitive bottom-of-the-barrel claiming affair. The morning line favorite is Go East (6) at 1-1, trained by Brandon Kulp and ridden by Angel R. Rodriguez, which is a very short price in an eight-horse field.

Race 3

Pace Analysis

Eight horses at six furlongs at the $5,000 claiming level means pace chaos is a real possibility. Cappetta (8) at 2-1 and Fire Down Below (5) at 5-1 could both want to run forwardly. Go East (6) as the prohibitive favorite may also have early foot. Multiple speed sources in a cheap claiming sprint can set up for a closer, but at this level, horses rarely produce the sustained late kick needed to capitalize. The pace could be honest to fast, which may create some value in the stalker or closer division.

Key Contenders

Go East (6), trained by Brandon Kulp and ridden by Angel R. Rodriguez, is the overwhelming morning line favorite at 1-1. Kulp and Rodriguez represent the top trainer-jockey combination on tonight's Penn National card across multiple races. The 1-1 price reflects strong confidence that this horse simply outclasses the field. At this level, a fit, well-prepared horse from a leading stable often justifies such a short price. The concern is the short odds in an eight-horse field where one bad break can end the day.

Cappetta (8), trained by Kevin Fields and ridden by E. Flores, opens at 2-1. Fields has been active at Penn National at the lower claiming levels, and Flores is a capable rider. As the second choice in the field, Cappetta (8) is clearly viewed as the main threat to Go East (6). The outside post in an eight-horse sprint could be a minor negative, but if the horse has tactical speed to get into position early, the outside draw is manageable.

Secondary Choices

Fire Down Below (5), trained by Amy Albright and ridden by Yabriel O. Ramos, opens at 5-1. Albright saddles two horses on tonight's card, also running Mischief Warrior (7) in this same race. Fire Down Below (5) carries a competitive price and Ramos is a solid rider at this level. Albright's two-horse presence in Race 3 is notable.

Mischief Warrior (7), the second Albright entry in this race, is ridden by Angel R. Quinones and opens at 6-1. Quinones is a consistent performer at Penn National and Mischief Warrior (7) at 6-1 offers some value if Albright has this horse sharp.

Longshots

The Judge And Jury (4), trained by Bruce M. Kravets and ridden by R. Chiappe, opens at 6-1. Kravets runs multiple horses on tonight's card and has experience at Penn National. Chiappe has ridden at this track and at 6-1, The Judge And Jury (4) could sneak into exacta or trifecta consideration.

Magic Spin (3), trained by Jonathan Maldonado and ridden by Jomar Torres, opens at 8-1. Maldonado also runs in Races 1 and 4 tonight, and Torres is his regular pilot. At 8-1 in a $5,000 claimer, Magic Spin (3) is a longer shot but Torres is capable of a front-running trip that could surprise at big odds.

Bright Charger (1), trained by Timothy C. Kreiser and ridden by Angel Cruz, opens at 8-1. The rail post in an eight-horse sprint could be an asset or a trap depending on the break. Kreiser is an experienced Penn National trainer.

Spinning Musician (2), trained by Cody Beattie and ridden by Leonardo Corujo, opens at 10-1. The longest morning line in the field, Spinning Musician (2) is a difficult recommend at any level of investment. Use only in deep exotic coverage if at all.

Selections

Win: Go East (6) Place: Cappetta (8) Show: Fire Down Below (5)

Betting Strategy: Despite the short odds, Go East (6) may be worth a WIN bet simply for base bankroll action, but the real money is in exactas. Cappetta (8) over Go East (6) at a reverse is worth playing given the outside draw concern for the favorite. Trifecta: 6 over 8 over 5,7. The 1-1 price on Go East (6) makes it a mandatory Win/Place in exotics but does not make sense as a large single WIN wager for serious bettors. An upset scenario at big odds could produce a nice exacta payout.

RACE 4 — Post (7:12)/6:12/5:12/4:12 — 1320f | D | M | Md 10000 | BUN | Purse $16,000

Race 4 is a six-furlong maiden event at a $10,000 claiming price with a $16,000 purse. Six horses enter in a race that should be wide open given the maiden condition at this modest price. Maiden claiming races at Penn National at the $10,000 level often feature horses that have tried multiple times without success, making the form cycles difficult to read.

Race 4

Pace Analysis

The Piranha (5) and Bernie Says So (6) are the co-morning line favorites at 2-1 each. Trainer Thomas Houghton saddles both Letspumpthebrakes (3) and Bernie Says So (6). As in Race 2, the trainer double entry is worth examining for jockey assignment signals. Bernie Says So (6) draws the Corujo mount while Letspumpthebrakes (3) gets D. Cora. Both are capable riders. The pace in a six-horse maiden claimer at six furlongs figures to be moderate, as this type of field rarely sustains a burning early pace without backing up badly.

Key Contenders

The Piranha (5), trained by Mark Ippolito and ridden by Vladimir Diaz, is the co-morning line favorite at 2-1. Ippolito also runs Mobot (2) in this race. The trainer double gives The Piranha (5) the nod by jockey assignment, as Diaz is the stronger rider between the two. In maiden claiming races at Penn National, the Ippolito barn has a track record of placing horses in winnable spots.

Bernie Says So (6), trained by Thomas Houghton and ridden by Wilfredo Corujo, is the co-favorite at 2-1. Houghton's two-entry situation in this race mirrors the Potts situation in Race 2. Bernie Says So (6) gets Corujo, who is one of the more active riders at Penn National and a quality hand at this level. The outside post at six furlongs in a six-horse field is not a major concern.

Secondary Choices

Chubblesome (4), trained by Flint W. Stites and ridden by Yabriel O. Ramos, opens at 4-1. Stites is the trainer of tonight's feature contender Kit Scat (1) in Race 5 as well. The 4-1 morning line on Chubblesome (4) suggests this horse has shown ability in the mornings or in previous starts. Ramos is a solid jockey.

Letspumpthebrakes (3), the second Houghton entry, opens at 5-1 with D. Cora up. At 5-1, this is the weaker of the two Houghton runners by morning line signal, but in a six-horse maiden claimer, any horse is capable of winning on any given day.

Longshots

Rio Del Valle (1), trained by Jonathan Maldonado and ridden by Jomar Torres, opens at 8-1. Maldonado is active across multiple races tonight, but Rio Del Valle (1) at 8-1 in a maiden claimer is facing a tough assignment against the co-favorites. The rail post could be an asset if the horse can break cleanly.

Mobot (2), the second Ippolito entry ridden by Angel R. Quinones, opens at 8-1. As the second string of the Ippolito barn, Mobot (2) at 8-1 may offer some exotics value. Quinones is a capable rider who could nurse a nice trip from the two-post.

Selections

Win: The Piranha (5) Place: Bernie Says So (6) Show: Chubblesome (4)

Betting Strategy: The trainer double entry dynamics suggest The Piranha (5) and Bernie Says So (6) are both serious contenders. An exacta box of 5 and 6 is reasonable, with trifecta coverage including Chubblesome (4) as the third. The 2-1 prices on both favorites suggest the public will make this race chalky, so the best value is in the exacta reversal or a trifecta with one of the 4-1 to 5-1 horses completing the ticket.

RACE 5 — Post (7:41)/6:41/5:41/4:41 — 1320f | D | A | Alw 41000n1x | BUN | Purse $41,000

Race 5 is the feature of the evening, a six-furlong allowance race restricted to non-winners of a race other than maiden or claiming. The $41,000 purse is the richest on the card by a significant margin, and seven horses enter. The allowance condition at this level at Penn National attracts horses that have already broken their maiden and are now looking to take the next step in their career. This is a genuine quality test.

Race 5

Pace Analysis

Ninja Prize (4) is the morning line favorite at 2-1, trained by Cody Beattie. Brother Paul (2) at 4-1 and Chilling Hassle (5) and Uncle Money (6) also at 4-1 create a competitive middle tier. With seven horses in a six-furlong allowance sprint, the pace will depend heavily on which horses have early speed. Allowance-level horses at Penn National typically run a more honest pace than cheap claimers, and the finishing kick of each horse is more reliable. A clean, honest pace sets up for the class horse to take command in the upper stretch.

Key Contenders

Ninja Prize (4), trained by Cody Beattie and ridden by Wilfredo Corujo, is the morning line favorite at 2-1. Beattie is a leading trainer at Penn National with strong statistics at the allowance level. Corujo is one of the top pilots on the Penn National circuit and gets the call on the favorite. The combination of Beattie and Corujo in the feature race commands significant respect. Ninja Prize (4) from post four has a clean draw in a seven-horse field.

Brother Paul (2), trained by Erin C. McClellan and ridden by Inoel Beato, opens at 4-1. McClellan is a capable trainer at this level and Beato is a competent rider. At 4-1, Brother Paul (2) represents the primary challenger to the morning line favorite and offers fair value.

Chilling Hassle (5), trained by Kathlee Crook-Demasi and ridden by Abner Adorno, opens at 4-1. The 4-1 price on the co-second choice gives this horse legitimate contender status. Adorno is a solid hand and Chilling Hassle (5) could be the type of horse that takes a forward position and gets loose on the front end.

Secondary Choices

Uncle Money (6), trained by Timothy C. Kreiser and ridden by Angel Cruz, opens at 4-1. Kreiser is a well-established Penn National trainer and Uncle Money (6) at 4-1 is worth serious consideration. Cruz has been active on the Penn National circuit and handles the book well. Three horses at 4-1 in the same race creates genuine value opportunities in the exacta.

Kit Scat (1), trained by Flint W. Stites and ridden by Yabriel O. Ramos, opens at 8-1. Stites and Ramos are a capable combination at Penn National and the rail post in a seven-horse allowance sprint could be advantageous if Kit Scat (1) can break sharply. At 8-1, this is a real value play if the horse has been working well.

Longshots

Ridley Park (3), trained by Carlos M. Johnson and ridden by E. Flores, opens at 8-1. Johnson is a trainer with limited visibility on the Penn National circuit and Ridley Park (3) faces a tough field at 8-1. Flores is capable but this horse needs significant improvement to threaten.

Ira The Icon (7), trained by Konstan Harigeorgiou and ridden by M. Aguilar, opens at 8-1 from the outside post. The seven-post in a seven-horse sprint at Penn National requires a wide path and is the least desirable draw. At 8-1, Ira The Icon (7) is a deep exotics inclusion at best.

Selections

Win: Ninja Prize (4) Place: Chilling Hassle (5) Show: Uncle Money (6)

Betting Strategy: The feature race is dominated by the Beattie-Corujo combination on Ninja Prize (4). The three horses at 4-1 create exacta value, and boxing Ninja Prize (4) with any two of the 4-1 horses in a trifecta is the core strategy. Exacta: 4 over 5 and 6. Trifecta key: 4 on top, then combinations of 2, 5, and 6. A WIN bet on Ninja Prize (4) at 2-1 is the baseline.

RACE 6 — Post (8:10)/7:10/6:10/5:10 — 1320f | D | C | Clm 5000n2l | BUN | Purse $13,000

Race 6 is a six-furlong claiming sprint at $5,000 restricted to non-winners of two lifetime, with a $13,000 purse. Five horses enter, making this one of the smaller fields on the card. At this level, the non-winners-of-two restriction means these are horses that have either won once or are still looking for that first victory at a very low price point.

Race 6

Pace Analysis

Bells Run (2) and Marchin Into April (4) are co-morning line favorites at 2-1. Rag Mama Rag (5) opens at 3-1. In a five-horse field at six furlongs at the $5,000 level, pace scenarios are relatively easy to project. If any single horse can get loose on the front end, the slow competition here means they could wire the field. The five-horse field makes trifecta payouts modest but provides cleaner handicapping.

Key Contenders

Bells Run (2), trained by Frank Cifarelli and ridden by E. Flores, is the co-morning line favorite at 2-1. Cifarelli is a proven trainer at Penn National with consistent numbers and Flores is the most frequently used jockey on tonight's card. The combination here in a five-horse field at this modest level is a strong play. If Bells Run (2) can break well from post two, the inside draw is a genuine advantage.

Marchin Into April (4), trained by Ruperto A. Perez and ridden by Joezer Rangel, is the co-favorite at 2-1. Perez is a Penn National regular and Marchin Into April (4) from post four has a clean, uncrowded draw. Rangel gets the call and while he is less prominent among tonight's jockeys, the 2-1 price signals genuine confidence from the morning line setter.

Secondary Choices

Rag Mama Rag (5), trained by Carl O'Callahan and ridden by Wilfredo Corujo, opens at 3-1. O'Callahan is a workmanlike trainer at this level and Corujo, one of the evening's busiest riders, steps in at 3-1 on a horse that could easily factor. In a five-horse field, the third morning line choice at 3-1 is never far from the money.

Longshots

Jethro Excellence (3), trained by Scott A. Lake and ridden by Jomar Torres, opens at 4-1. Lake is one of the more accomplished trainers when he drops horses to this level at Penn National, and Torres has the track knowledge to help. The 4-1 price on Jethro Excellence (3) may be conservative.

Mencke (1), trained by Bruce M. Kravets and ridden by Yabriel O. Ramos, opens at 5-1. Kravets runs multiple horses tonight and Mencke (1) from the rail at 5-1 in a five-horse field could get a beautiful trip if the horse can rate near the front. Ramos is capable. This could be the best single-race value play on the undercard.

Selections

Win: Bells Run (2) Place: Marchin Into April (4) Show: Rag Mama Rag (5)

Betting Strategy: With only five horses, exactas and trifectas are very manageable. Bells Run (2) and Marchin Into April (4) both deserve WIN consideration. The exacta box of 2 and 4 is inexpensive and covers the two co-favorites. Including Rag Mama Rag (5) in the trifecta is almost mandatory given the short field. Mencke (1) at 5-1 in trifectas could produce a nice price if the inside rail horse fires.

RACE 7 — Post (8:39)/7:39/6:39/5:39 — 1320f | D | C | Clm 4000n1y | BUN | Purse $12,000

The nightcap is a ten-horse six-furlong claiming event at $4,000 restricted to non-winners in the past year, carrying a $12,000 purse. Ten horses at the absolute bottom of the claiming ladder make this the most chaotic race on the card and the most difficult to handicap with confidence. At $4,000 claiming with the n1y restriction, these are horses that have either not won in over a year or have significant issues that prevent them from finding the winner's circle. Large fields at this level frequently produce surprising results.

Race 7

Pace Analysis

My Detroit City (6) is the morning line favorite at 2-1, trained by Thomas Houghton and ridden by Inoel Beato. At 2-1 in a ten-horse field at the $4,000 level, My Detroit City (6) is a very short price and the betting public will likely make this horse even shorter at post time. With ten horses, speed duels are likely, and the pace could be fast enough to set up closers. Pardsy (9) at 6-1 and the multiple 8-1 horses give this race exotic appeal.

Key Contenders

My Detroit City (6), trained by Thomas Houghton and ridden by Inoel Beato, is the morning line favorite at 2-1. Houghton has been one of the active trainers on tonight's card, running multiple horses. At $4,000 claiming, a horse that can win off a dominant figure is worth the short price in terms of WIN consideration, but 2-1 in a ten-horse field is a tough overlay to recommend for significant WIN investment.

Pardsy (9), trained by Sandee D. Beattie and ridden by Hunter Rea, opens at 6-1. The Beattie name is prominent tonight with both Cody Beattie and Todd M. Beattie also running horses. Pardsy (9) at 6-1 with a fresh rider in Hunter Rea could be a value play if the inside horses engage in a pace battle.

Secondary Choices

Bruder (8), trained by Todd M. Beattie and ridden by Yabriel O. Ramos, opens at 8-1. Beattie and Ramos combine in the nightcap and while 8-1 in a $4,000 claimer is not the most inspiring price, this barn has horses that compete at this level consistently.

Prince Of Rain (1), trained by Michael Zalalas and ridden by Wilfredo Corujo, opens at 4-1. The second choice in the morning line from the rail post with Corujo up is worth noting. Corujo has been active all evening, and if Prince Of Rain (1) can break cleanly from the rail, the savings in ground could be decisive in a race where every advantage counts.

Eddiemush (5), trained by J.F. Bobadilla and ridden by Angel R. Quinones, opens at 8-1. Quinones is capable and Eddiemush (5) from post five has a clean draw in the middle of the field. In a ten-horse claiming race, mid-pack stalkers sometimes benefit most from the inevitable early scramble.

Longshots

Boss Holiday (2), trained by Amy Albright and ridden by E. Flores, opens at 8-1. Albright's third runner on tonight's card, Boss Holiday (2) is a legitimate exotics play at 8-1 if the horse gets a clean trip in a crowded field.

Callin My Name (3), trained by Bruce M. Kravets and ridden by R. Chiappe, opens at 15-1. Kravets runs both Callin My Name (3) and Lafitte's Fleet (7) tonight. At 15-1, Callin My Name (3) is an extreme longshot but could be used in a bottom trifecta or superfecta position.

Cantaro (4), trained by Joseph A. Martinez and ridden by Leonardo Corujo, opens at 10-1. Martinez is a lesser-known Penn National trainer and Cantaro (4) at 10-1 needs things to fall perfectly.

Lafitte's Fleet (7), trained by Bruce M. Kravets and ridden by D. Cora, opens at 12-1. Kravets's second entry in this race, the better of the two by Cora's assignment. In a ten-horse field at this price point, 12-1 could offer real trifecta value if the favorite tires in the stretch.

Tommy The Torch (10), trained by Amy Albright and ridden by Maicol J. Inirio, opens at 10-1. Albright's fourth horse on tonight's card overall. Tommy The Torch (10) from the outside post in a ten-horse sprint faces a challenging trip. At 10-1, use only in wide superfecta coverage.

Selections

Win: My Detroit City (6) Place: Prince Of Rain (1) Show: Pardsy (9)

Betting Strategy: The nightcap is a chaotic ten-horse field at the lowest claiming level of the card. WIN bets are low value at 2-1 on My Detroit City (6) in this field size. The best approach is to use My Detroit City (6) on top of exactas and trifectas while including Prince Of Rain (1), Pardsy (9), and Bruder (8) as secondary components. A small superfecta wheel using My Detroit City (6) on top with three or four horses underneath could pay well. Lafitte's Fleet (7) at 12-1 in the bottom of a trifecta or superfecta is a strong value inclusion.

Jockey Notes and Insights

Angel R. Rodriguez leads the jockey activity chart on tonight's Penn National card with mounts in Race 1 on Black Fly (4), Race 2 on Gwen To Win (1), and Race 3 on Go East (6). Rodriguez is a reliable and experienced rider at this oval and gets the call from trainer Brandon Kulp on multiple horses tonight. His mounts span the biggest favorites on the card, which is a strong signal of confidence from leading connections.

Wilfredo Corujo is another high-volume rider tonight, appearing in Races 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7. His mount on Ninja Prize (4) in the feature Race 5 for trainer Cody Beattie is the marquee assignment of the evening. Corujo's Penn National experience and high booking rate make him one of the key riders to follow across the entire card.

Jomar Torres rides for trainer Jonathan Maldonado across multiple races, including the turf route in Race 1 on Yo Leven (3) and sprints in Race 3 on Magic Spin (3) and Race 4 on Rio Del Valle (1). The Torres-Maldonado combination is worth noting as a connected barn that tends to target specific spots.

E. Flores appears across Races 3, 5, 6, and 7, with the most notable assignment being Ridley Park (3) in the feature and Bells Run (2) in Race 6. Flores has consistent Penn National experience and is among the more active riders on tonight's card.

Yabriel O. Ramos rides in Races 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7, with assignments for multiple trainers including Stites and Beattie. Ramos's versatility across multiple barns on a single card speaks to his standing in the Penn National jockey colony.

Sonny Leon's single mount on Crimson Red (2) in Race 2 is the standout booking of the evening. A quality rider taking a lone mount on the morning line favorite for a trainer who also enters a second horse sends a strong message about which runner the Potts barn prefers.

Trainer Notes and Insights

Brandon Kulp is the most prominent trainer on tonight's card by morning line confidence, with Go East (6) at 1-1 in Race 3 and Black Fly (4) at 2-1 in Race 1 as the top choices in their respective races. Kulp consistently places horses in winnable spots at Penn National and his pairing with Rodriguez tonight on multiple favorites deserves respect.

Wayne Potts enters two horses in Race 2, Gwen To Win (1) and Crimson Red (2). The Sonny Leon booking on Crimson Red (2) is the primary signal. Potts has solid win numbers when he enters two horses and signals the preferred runner through jockey quality.

Thomas Houghton runs three horses tonight: Letspumpthebrakes (3) and Bernie Says So (6) in Race 4, and My Detroit City (6) in the nightcap Race 7. The double entry in Race 4 mirrors the Potts strategy in Race 2, with Bernie Says So (6) drawing the higher-profile Corujo mount. My Detroit City (6) as the short-priced favorite in Race 7 is Houghton's best shot at a winner on the night.

Mark Ippolito enters two horses in Race 4, The Piranha (5) and Mobot (2). Vladimir Diaz on The Piranha (5) versus Angel R. Quinones on Mobot (2) gives the nod to The Piranha (5) by jockey assignment.

Cody Beattie trains the feature favorite Ninja Prize (4) in Race 5 and Spinning Musician (2) in Race 3. Beattie has strong trainer statistics at Penn National at the allowance level, and the Ninja Prize (4) assignment to Corujo in the feature is the barn's best chance of a high-profile winner tonight.

Amy Albright is the most entered trainer on tonight's card by sheer number of runners, with Fire Down Below (5) and Mischief Warrior (7) in Race 3, Boss Holiday (2) in Race 7, and Tommy The Torch (10) in Race 7. The dual entries in both Race 3 and Race 7 are notable. In Race 7, Boss Holiday (2) gets the stronger rider in Flores over Inirio on Tommy The Torch (10), suggesting Boss Holiday (2) is the preferred Albright runner in the nightcap.

Bruce M. Kravets runs The Judge And Jury (4) in Race 3, Mencke (1) in Race 6, Callin My Name (3) in Race 7, and Lafitte's Fleet (7) in Race 7. The dual entry in Race 7 with Cora on Lafitte's Fleet (7) over Chiappe on Callin My Name (3) points to Lafitte's Fleet (7) as the barn's preferred runner in the closer. The Kravets barn is active throughout the card.

Best Wagering Strategies and Value Plays

The most actionable card-level strategy for a Friday night at Penn National involves building a Pick 4 or Pick 5 sequence targeting the middle and back half of the card where the horses with the best trainer-jockey angles cluster.

Starting a Pick 4 in Race 4 through Race 7 is the recommended exotic structure for tonight. The structure would look like this:

Race 4: The Piranha (5), Bernie Says So (6) Race 5: Ninja Prize (4), Chilling Hassle (5) Race 6: Bells Run (2), Marchin Into April (4), Rag Mama Rag (5) Race 7: My Detroit City (6), Prince Of Rain (1), Pardsy (9)

A 2x2x3x3 structure costs $36 for a $1 base unit. This ticket captures the two co-favorites in Race 4, the top two choices in the feature, a three-way coverage in the manageable five-horse Race 6, and a three-way spread in the chaotic nightcap. This is the most efficient approach to covering the card's most predictable horses while maintaining exotic upside.

For single-race value plays, the most attractive prices relative to their chances tonight are Mencke (1) in Race 6 at 5-1 in a five-horse field and Uncle Money (6) in Race 5 at 4-1 in the feature. Both horses have capable connections and the morning line prices are generous given field size and trainer quality.

Lafitte's Fleet (7) at 12-1 in Race 7 is the best longshot value on the card given the Kravets barn signal of putting Cora on this horse over the 15-1 Callin My Name (3). In a ten-horse field where chaos is the norm, a 12-1 shot with a competent jockey booking is a worthwhile small WIN bet and a primary component of trifecta and superfecta tickets in the nightcap.

The Race 2 exacta of Crimson Red (2) over Eleni (4), both at 2-1 in the morning line, could return a modest but reliable exacta price in a five-horse field. The reverse at smaller investment is also recommended.

Race 5 deserves the most serious wagering attention given the purse size and the three horses clustered at 4-1. Boxing Ninja Prize (4), Chilling Hassle (5), and Uncle Money (6) in a trifecta box covers the most logical outcome while leaving room for the value that multiple 4-1 prices can produce. A three-horse trifecta box costs $6 for a $1 base and is the single best exotic value structure on tonight's card.

Bettors playing the late Pick 3 in Races 5-6-7 should use Ninja Prize (4) on top in Race 5, spread across Bells Run (2) and Marchin Into April (4) in Race 6, and wheel My Detroit City (6) with two to three secondary horses in Race 7. A two-wide spread in each of the two shorter fields keeps the ticket cost manageable while providing coverage for the ten-horse chaos in the closer.

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


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