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Santa Anita Park – Pick Pony Handicapper Report & Tip Sheet – News and Analysis for the May 22, 2026 card

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Race Day Overview — Santa Anita Park, Friday, May 22, 2026

Santa Anita Park opens a four-day Memorial Day holiday weekend card on Friday, May 22, 2026, serving as the appetizer to Sunday's marquee Grade 1 Shoemaker Mile Stakes. Today's eleven-race program features a mix of maiden special weights, claiming races, and allowance conditions spread across the main track and turf, with a Pick 6 carryover pool expected to exceed $400,000 beginning in Race 4. That carryover is the primary wagering storyline of the day and will drive significant handle through the back half of the card.

The Friday card kicks off the Memorial Day weekend at Arcadia in earnest, with trainers positioning horses ahead of Sunday's graded action while also filling out a competitive undercard. The maiden special weight races in particular carry added significance, as connections look to get first-time starters and lightly raced horses out early in the meet before the bigger weekend crowds arrive. Race 4 anchors the carryover sequence and features the heavily touted Decisive Win (POST 5) out of the Doug O'Neill barn, named as a best bet by multiple handicappers.

The Shoemaker Mile field of nine older horses is shaping up as the headline event of the weekend, and several horses on today's undercard may be tuned up or freshened for upcoming stakes opportunities. Jeff Mullins, whose barn made news recently with Queen Maxima taking a freshening after her Mizdirection Stakes score, runs Liam Smith (POST 9) in Race 5 and Subtle Knowledge (POST 5) in Race 8, demonstrating his continued presence on the Southern California circuit heading into the holiday stretch.

Weather and Track Conditions — Santa Anita Park, May 22, 2026

Santa Anita is experiencing typical late-May Southern California weather for this Friday card. Conditions are clear to partly cloudy with temperatures expected in the mid-70s during the afternoon, warming slightly into the early evening hours as the later races go off under the lights. There is no precipitation in the forecast, which means both the main dirt track and the turf course should be in their standard configurations.

The main track is listed as fast for the dirt races on today's card, which is the norm for Santa Anita in late May under dry conditions. The turf is listed as firm, which is ideal for the multiple turf sprints and routes on the program. A firm turf at Santa Anita tends to produce quick fractions and rewards horses with tactical speed or proven ability on a quick surface. The Race 7 turf route at 2200 furlongs on the outer turf is the longest grass test of the day and will be run under excellent footing.

Track maintenance crews have maintained the inner rail at a consistent position throughout the recent meet, and there are no reports of significant surface changes or renovations ahead of the holiday weekend. The Hillside turf course, used for turf routes, is in good shape.

Track Bias and Post Position Analysis

Santa Anita's main track has shown a moderate speed-favoring bias in recent weeks during the dry spring stretch. Horses that can establish position near the front through the first quarter are converting at an above-average clip, particularly in shorter dirt sprints. However, closers with tactical ability have also won their share of races at middle distances on the main track, suggesting the bias is not extreme.

On the turf, the firm course at Santa Anita historically plays fair with a slight advantage to horses that can track the pace from mid-pack. Pure front-runners on the grass have been vulnerable when pressed, while horses with strong late kicks — particularly in routes — have been competitive. In the turf sprints, speed from the inside or two-path has been effective, making post position more relevant in the 1320-furlong grass dashes.

Post position on the main track at a mile (1760 furlongs) is somewhat neutral, though horses drawing the rail have occasionally been compromised by traffic. In the 1210-furlong dirt sprint in Race 6, inside posts have been workable when speed is present. For the turf routes, outside posts in 2200-furlong events are not a significant disadvantage given the run to the first turn and the extended distance.

RACE 1 — Post 4:00 — 1760f | T | CO | OClm 50000 | BUM | Purse $35,000

A one-mile turf claiming race for older horses at the $50,000 level opens the card. Seven horses are entered, and the field features a mix of turf veterans and horses stretching out or dropping in class. The morning line favorite is Rehearsal (POST 1) at 2-1 from the Philip D'Amato barn.

Race 1

Pace Analysis

This figures to be a moderately contested turf mile. With seven entrants and no obvious confirmed front-runners from every post, the pace will likely be set from the inside early, with horses having ample room to settle into position on the first turn. Wildfire Princess (POST 3) is the most likely pace-setter based on past running patterns in turf routes, and she will likely control the tempo from the front. Rehearsal (POST 1) and Orange Thunder (POST 2) figure to track in a close second and third position. The overall tempo should be moderate, which opens the door for closers but does not eliminate front-end speed.

Key Contenders

Rehearsal (POST 1) is the clear public choice at morning line 2-1 and is trained by Philip D'Amato, one of the most accomplished turf trainers in Southern California. D'Amato has a well-established record of producing sharp turfers at Santa Anita, and his horses at this claiming level on the grass are regularly near their best form. Antonio Fresu gets the mount, and the combination of D'Amato's turf expertise and Fresu's recent form makes this a legitimate morning line favorite. The rail draw in a turf route is somewhat neutral at a mile, and Rehearsal (POST 1) will need to find early position or track a clean path around the turn.

Wildfire Princess (POST 3) opens at 3-1 and was specifically highlighted in the early handicapping analysis for this card. Trained by R.B. Hess Jr. and ridden by Juan J. Hernandez, she is expected to be forwardly placed and will attempt to control the fractions from the front. Handicappers have mentioned her by name as a top selection in this opener, suggesting she brings solid recent form into today's spot. If she can steal a moderate pace on the front end without being pressed hard through the turn, her chances are legitimate.

Secondary Choices

Orange Thunder (POST 2) at 4-1 from the Craig A. Lewis barn is a reasonable alternative at a competitive price. Kazushi Kimura rides, and the horse figures to be close to the pace in a two or three-wide position. Lewis has been a consistent presence on the Southern California circuit and runs his horses ready, making Orange Thunder (POST 2) a credible secondary choice at a price that offers some overlay potential if the two favorites cancel each other out.

Channel Place (POST 6) opens at 5-1 from the Doug O'Neill barn with E. Jaramillo aboard. O'Neill is always a dangerous trainer when dropping into claiming events on the turf, and the outside post at a mile on grass is no significant hindrance. Channel Place (POST 6) deserves respect as a potential pace-pressing option that could benefit from any scramble between the inside horses.

Longshots

Lanilla (POST 5) at 6-1 from Vladimir Cerin's barn with Armando Ayuso up is not without a chance if pace scenarios set up favorably. Cerin runs a smaller operation but occasionally spots horses well at this claiming level. Green Zone (POST 7) at 8-1 for Dean Pederson and Armando Aguilar is a tough sell from the outside post at this price, though if the pace collapses, a late-closing effort cannot be dismissed entirely. Interplay (POST 4) at 10-1 from the Neil Drysdale barn is interesting on trainer reputation alone — Drysdale is a Hall of Fame conditioner and his horses can be deceptively well-prepared — but 10-1 morning line reflects legitimate questions about current form.

Selections

Win: Wildfire Princess (POST 3) Place: Rehearsal (POST 1) Show: Orange Thunder (POST 2)

Betting strategy: Wildfire Princess (POST 3) at 3-1 offers a slight overlay given her noted presence among top picks from multiple handicappers. A win wager on Wildfire Princess (POST 3) with a saver on Rehearsal (POST 1) covers the two most likely outcomes. For exacta players, the 3-1 combination is the primary play, with the 3-2 box as a secondary investment.

RACE 2 — Post 4:30 — 1320f | D | S | Md Sp Wt | GON | Purse $65,000

A six-furlong dirt maiden special weight for fillies and mares opens the maiden action on the card. Six horses are entered, and the morning line is dominated by two horses — Here On Business (POST 2) at 2-1 and Otto's Magic (POST 3) at 1-1 — setting up a two-horse battle.

Race 2

Pace Analysis

Six furlongs on the dirt for maidens typically produces honest fractions, particularly when speed horses are entered. Otto's Magic (POST 3) has the look of a horse that will be prominent early, while Here On Business (POST 2) is also likely to be forwardly placed. With two horses overlapping in terms of probable early position, there could be a pace duel that opens the door for a closer or a stalker. Van Gogh Style (POST 6) and Mickey (POST 4) figure to track the pace and could benefit if the speed horses tire.

Key Contenders

Otto's Magic (POST 3) is the morning line favorite at 1-1, trained by Philip D'Amato and ridden by Ricardo Gonzalez. D'Amato's maiden horses are typically well-prepared and receive positive press before their debuts when deserved. A 1-1 price on a maiden signals significant trainer and stable confidence. D'Amato maidens at Santa Anita convert at a rate that justifies short-priced plays in this condition, and Otto's Magic (POST 3) should be respected at face value.

Here On Business (POST 2) at 2-1 is from the Dean Pederson barn with Tiago Pereira taking the mount. Pereira is a sharp rider who can be effective on tactical speedsters in maiden routes. Pederson trains a solid Southern California operation and the 2-1 morning line reflects genuine competitiveness. If Otto's Magic (POST 3) gets into a speed duel, Here On Business (POST 2) is the natural beneficiary.

Secondary Choices

Mickey (POST 4) at 5-1 is trained by Val Brinkerhoff with Adrian Escobedo aboard. Brinkerhoff runs a modest-sized barn but can produce ready first-time starters in this company. At 5-1, Mickey (POST 4) offers solid value as a pace stalker who can pounce if the top two get into each other early. Delaneys Dreamer (POST 5) at 6-1 is the stablemate to Mickey (POST 4), also trained by Brinkerhoff, with Alfredo L. Bautista up. Two-horse entries from smaller barns can be difficult to handicap, but Delaneys Dreamer (POST 5) appears to be the secondary option and deserves inclusion in exotic plays.

Longshots

Van Gogh Style (POST 6) at 8-1 from Sean McCarthy's barn with T.C. Baze riding is an interesting outside longshot. McCarthy has been effective on the Southern California circuit and Baze is an experienced hand with maiden turf and dirt horses. If the pace collapses from a two-way battle, Van Gogh Style (POST 6) is the most likely to capitalize. Cornealeusthegreat (POST 1) at 15-1 is a distant longshot from the Edwin G. Alvarez barn with Jeremy Laprida up, and while the price reflects its status as a distant outside shot, it cannot be completely dismissed in a small maiden field.

Selections

Win: Otto's Magic (POST 3) Place: Here On Business (POST 2) Show: Mickey (POST 4)

Betting strategy: Otto's Magic (POST 3) at 1-1 is an acceptable win bet only if you are comfortable with short prices on maiden runners. The more profitable play may be to key Otto's Magic (POST 3) over Here On Business (POST 2) and Mickey (POST 4) in the exacta, with a secondary exacta of Here On Business (POST 2) over Otto's Magic (POST 3) as a backup. Trifecta players should use all three in the first three slots with Van Gogh Style (POST 6) filling the bottom.

RACE 3 — Post 5:02 — 1320f | T | C | Clm 32000 | BOF | Purse $37,000

A six-furlong turf claiming sprint for fillies and mares at $32,000. Five horses are entered in what amounts to a short field, with Eva Lea (POST 2) as the heavy favorite at 1-1 from the John Sadler barn.

Race 3

Pace Analysis

Five horses in a turf sprint will produce a relatively simple pace picture. Cosmo Friday (POST 1) from the O'Neill barn figures to be the primary pace-setter, while Eva Lea (POST 2) will likely be placed just off the pace in a tracking position. The relatively small field reduces traffic complications, and the race will likely develop into a two or three-horse contest in the stretch. Eva Lea (POST 2) pressing or tracking Cosmo Friday (POST 1) early sets up a clear confrontation at the head of the lane.

Key Contenders

Eva Lea (POST 2) at 1-1 is the dominant public choice. Trained by John Sadler — one of the most respected turf conditioners in the country — with Joel Rosario aboard, this is a formidable combination in a $32,000 claiming turf sprint. Sadler's horses are consistently sharp at Santa Anita, and Rosario is one of the most accomplished riders in the sport. The 1-1 price is short but reflects genuine class and preparation. In a five-horse field, the favorite wins a healthy percentage of the time, and there is little reason to look past this combination.

Cosmo Friday (POST 1) at 2-1 is trained by Doug O'Neill and ridden by E. Jaramillo. The inside post in a turf sprint is favorable for a pace-setter, and O'Neill will have this horse ready on the front end. If Cosmo Friday (POST 1) can dictate a comfortable pace without being pressured, the familiar setup of a front-runner stealing a short-field turf sprint is in play. O'Neill trains winners at a consistent clip, and the 2-1 price makes this an attractive exacta play underneath Eva Lea (POST 2).

Secondary Choices

Alix (POST 4) at 4-1 from R.B. Hess Jr. and Hector Isaac Berrios is a price horse worth considering in the exotics. Hess knows his claimers and drops in class sometimes reveal fresh horses that can outrun their morning line. Alix (POST 4) appears to be in a reasonable spot and deserves inclusion in trifecta tickets.

Longshots

Stars Hollow (POST 3) at 10-1 from Jerry Wallace's barn with Armando Aguilar is a significant overlay if the pace collapses, though 10-1 reflects limited competitive history in the class range. Sugaree (POST 5) at 12-1 for Librado Barocio with Kyle Frey is a difficult sell in this short-field sprint — the price is not unjustified — but cannot be entirely omitted from wide exotic plays.

Selections

Win: Eva Lea (POST 2) Place: Cosmo Friday (POST 1) Show: Alix (POST 4)

Betting strategy: With only five horses and a 1-1 favorite that is class-appropriate and trainer-trainer-supported, a win bet on Eva Lea (POST 2) is reasonable for conservative bettors. The more interesting play is the exacta keying Eva Lea (POST 2) over Cosmo Friday (POST 1) and Alix (POST 4), which should return a decent price relative to the short chalk. A small trifecta box of the top three with Stars Hollow (POST 3) in the bottom slot is also worth a small investment.

RACE 4 — Post 5:32 — 1760f | D | S | Md Sp Wt | GON | Purse $65,000

The anchor leg of the Pick 6 sequence opening begins here. This one-mile dirt maiden special weight for colts and geldings is the most high-profile race of the early card, and it carries the Pick 6 carryover into play. With the carryover expected to exceed $400,000, this race will see significant public interest and handle.

Race 4

Pace Analysis

Six maidens going a mile on the dirt will set up with an early pace battle likely between inside horses. Essos (POST 1) and Sabino Canyon (POST 2) both figure to be forwardly placed early. Decisive Win (POST 5), the morning line favorite, will likely settle into a mid-pack stalking position from which he can pounce in the stretch. The Bob Baffert entries, Sabino Canyon (POST 2) and One More Time (POST 6), add class depth to the fractions. If the pace is honest, the horse with the best final quarter will win.

Key Contenders

Decisive Win (POST 5) is the morning line favorite at 1-1 and was specifically named as the best bet of the day by multiple handicappers on this card. Trained by Doug O'Neill and ridden by Antonio Fresu, Decisive Win (POST 5) carries the weight of expectation into the carryover race. O'Neill's maiden runners at Santa Anita have strong first-out records, and the horse has reportedly been working well enough to earn a morning line of 1-1 in a competitive field. As the definitive consensus best bet of this card, Decisive Win (POST 5) deserves to be used on top in every Pick 6 ticket for this race.

Sabino Canyon (POST 2) at 4-1 is one of two Bob Baffert entries in this race. Baffert's maiden runners at Santa Anita are always a significant threat, particularly with Juan J. Hernandez getting the mount. The trainer has a Hall of Fame record developing young horses and his first-out starters regularly show up sharp. Sabino Canyon (POST 2) at 4-1 represents fair value as an alternative to the heavy favorite, and Baffert's familiarity with the Santa Anita surface and one-mile configuration makes this a dangerous contender.

Secondary Choices

Ghostwritten (POST 3) at 5-1 is from Tim Yakteen's barn with Kazushi Kimura riding. Yakteen has been a consistent presence at Santa Anita and develops solid maiden runners at the middle-distance level. Ghostwritten (POST 3) offers value at a price that competes with the Baffert entries without the name recognition. Essos (POST 1) at 5-1 from the Mark Glatt barn with E. Jaramillo gets the inside post and should be near the pace. Glatt is a solid trainer at this level and Essos (POST 1) could benefit from a clean trip on the front end.

Longshots

Broheim (POST 4) at 6-1 is from the Michael W. McCarthy barn with Ricardo Gonzalez up. McCarthy runs a top-tier Southern California operation and his maiden horses are always capable. At 6-1, Broheim (POST 4) is undervalued relative to trainer reputation and deserves inclusion in exotic tickets. One More Time (POST 6) at 8-1 is the second Baffert entry with Joel Rosario getting the mount. A Baffert-Rosario combination at 8-1 in a maiden race carries implicit value; Rosario would not be named on a horse without genuine expectations.

Selections

Win: Decisive Win (POST 5) Place: Sabino Canyon (POST 2) Show: Ghostwritten (POST 3)

Betting strategy: Decisive Win (POST 5) is the consensus best bet of the card and the anchor of the Pick 6. Win bettors should play him straight, but the 1-1 price makes the exacta more appealing than the win bet alone. Key Decisive Win (POST 5) over Sabino Canyon (POST 2), Ghostwritten (POST 3), and Broheim (POST 4) in the exacta. For Pick 6 players, single Decisive Win (POST 5) in this leg to keep ticket costs manageable and use the savings to spread in later legs.

RACE 5 — Post 6:02 — 1320f | T | R | Alw 50000s | BUN | Purse $36,000

A six-furlong turf allowance sprint for older horses with nine entrants. This is a competitive field with several horses closely matched, and the pace could be contested from multiple positions. Jeff Mullins runs Liam Smith (POST 9) here following the trainer's active recent period, and Money Makes Money (POST 1) and Burning Rubber (POST 2) share the morning line favoritism at 2-1.

Race 5

Pace Analysis

Nine horses in a turf sprint will create a complex early pace picture. Burning Rubber (POST 2), Money Makes Money (POST 1), and Double Jab (POST 7) all project as horses that will want to be near or on the pace. If three or more horses contest the early fractions, closers will be in an excellent position. Liam Smith (POST 9) from the Mullins barn should come from off the pace, and News At Ten (POST 5) from Peter Eurton's operation figures to track the pace in a pressing role. The nine-post in a six-furlong turf sprint at Santa Anita is challenging but not fatal for a horse with closing ability.

Key Contenders

Money Makes Money (POST 1) at 2-1 from Mark Glatt's barn with Ricardo Gonzalez riding gets the most favorable post in a turf sprint. Inside post positions in six-furlong turf sprints at Santa Anita have historically been advantageous when the horse can secure early rail position. Glatt is a reliable trainer in allowance turf sprints, and Money Makes Money (POST 1) should be able to find a good spot near the pace and be rolling at the right time.

Burning Rubber (POST 2) at 2-1 from Sean McCarthy's barn with Juan J. Hernandez up is the co-favorite and a credible alternative. McCarthy's turf horses are well-prepared, and Hernandez is one of the sharper riders on the Southern California circuit. Burning Rubber (POST 2) from post two in a turf sprint is well-positioned and should be competitive from start to finish.

Secondary Choices

Liam Smith (POST 9) at 3-1 from Jeff Mullins is a horse worth monitoring. Mullins has been sharp with his stable in recent weeks and Liam Smith (POST 9) offers slightly better value than the co-favorites. The outside post is a modest challenge, but Rosario's experience navigating traffic in turf sprints is a significant asset. If the pace develops into a contested battle, Liam Smith (POST 9) with a strong closer's kick could be best late.

News At Ten (POST 5) at 4-1 from Peter Eurton's barn with E. Jaramillo is a mid-field option with good positional value from the five-hole. Eurton trains solid turf horses and News At Ten (POST 5) deserves a place on exotic tickets as a pace-presser at fair odds.

Longshots

Double Jab (POST 7) at 5-1 from Andy Mathis's barn with Armando Ayuso up is an interesting price play. If the pace of the top three horses softens up the front, Double Jab (POST 7) could be in a good position to strike from mid-pack. Travelin' Show (POST 3) at 8-1 from Craig A. Lewis and Kazushi Kimura is another Lewis entry on the card — Lewis has multiple horses running today — and Travelin' Show (POST 3) cannot be dismissed at a price in a nine-horse turf sprint. Concord Bridge (POST 4) at 12-1 for Ronald W. Ellis and Kyle Frey is a distant longshot, though Ellis-trained horses can outrun their odds. Kimmer (POST 6) at 15-1 for Genaro Vallejo and Hector Isaac Berrios is fringe at best. Soi Ngern (POST 8) at 20-1 for Brinkerhoff and Bautista is a very long price and would require a complete pace collapse to factor.

Selections

Win: Money Makes Money (POST 1) Place: Liam Smith (POST 9) Show: Burning Rubber (POST 2)

Betting strategy: With two horses sharing 2-1 morning line favoritism and a legitimate closer at 3-1, this race sets up well for an exacta box among Money Makes Money (POST 1), Burning Rubber (POST 2), and Liam Smith (POST 9). Win bettors should favor Money Makes Money (POST 1) based on the advantageous post position. For Pick 6 tickets, use two or three horses here — Money Makes Money (POST 1), Liam Smith (POST 9), and News At Ten (POST 5) as a potential bomb — to manage costs while maintaining live tickets.

RACE 6 — Post 6:32 — 1210f | D | C | Clm 12500 | BUM | Purse $24,000

A six and a half-furlong claiming sprint on the dirt for older fillies and mares at the $12,500 level. Eight horses are entered with several horses sharing the 4-1 morning line in a competitive field that lacks a clear standout.

Race 6

Pace Analysis

This is the kind of competitive mid-card claiming sprint where pace analysis is particularly important. Sensational Z Z (POST 1) at 3-1 is the morning line favorite and will likely be near the pace from the inside. Several horses in this field carry similar speed figures, and the likely scenario is a contested pace that could set up a pace-pressing stalker. The 6.5-furlong distance on the dirt rewards horses that can press the pace without overextending early.

Key Contenders

Sensational Z Z (POST 1) at 3-1 from Francisco Rodriguez's barn with Kazushi Kimura is the morning line leader in a deeply crowded field. The inside post at six and a half furlongs on the dirt is an asset, and Kimura has been riding with consistent effectiveness on the local circuit. Rodriguez runs a modest but reliable operation, and Sensational Z Z (POST 1) figures to be on or near the pace throughout.

Miz Clubcali (POST 2) at 4-1 from Gary Stute's barn with Tiago Pereira up is one of several horses sharing the second-best price. Stute is a veteran California trainer who consistently runs his claimers in appropriate spots, and Wishes To Riches (POST 3) at 4-1 from Philip D'Amato and Alfredo Bautista is another option — D'Amato dropping a horse to the $12,500 claiming level commands attention and suggests the horse is positioned to fire. D'Amato's program horses are rarely sent out without intent.

Secondary Choices

Outrageous (POST 5) at 4-1 from Marcia Stortz's barn with Cristobal Herrera up is another horse sharing the same morning line price. In a field of multiple 4-1 shots, the public betting will ultimately differentiate who provides value. Ro Town (POST 7) at 4-1 from Sergio Morfin's barn with Ricardo S. Ramirez riding rounds out the group of co-second choices. Morfin has been active at Santa Anita and Ro Town (POST 7) could benefit from a pace-pressing position.

Longshots

Eltonsingsanother (POST 4) at 10-1 from Edwin G. Alvarez with Edgar Payeras is a standout only at price — the morning line suggests limited competitive edge but 10-1 is enough to warrant minor exotic inclusion. Little Tinker Elle (POST 6) at 15-1 for Jesus J. Uranga and Salvador R. Vargas is a distant longshot in a field with several competitive horses. Buds N Suds (POST 8) at 15-1 from Steve Knapp and Armando Ayuso is similarly distant, and while Knapp has experience in the Southern California claiming ranks, the morning line is honest here.

Selections

Win: Wishes To Riches (POST 3) Place: Sensational Z Z (POST 1) Show: Miz Clubcali (POST 2)

Betting strategy: The key wagering angle in this race is the D'Amato drop to $12,500 claiming with Wishes To Riches (POST 3). Trainers of D'Amato's caliber do not enter horses at this level without competitive intent, and the 4-1 morning line may underestimate the horse's readiness. An exacta box among Wishes To Riches (POST 3), Sensational Z Z (POST 1), and Miz Clubcali (POST 2) covers the logical top three, and a trifecta adding Outrageous (POST 5) and Ro Town (POST 7) keeps the ticket manageable.

RACE 7 — Post 7:02 — 2200f | T | AO | OClm 50000n1x | BUN | Purse $67,000

The best race on the card from a class and purse perspective among the non-graded events. This is a one and three-eighths mile turf claiming race restricted to horses that have not won a race other than maiden, claiming, or starter in a significant period. Seven horses are entered with several legitimate contenders, and this race will attract significant Pick 6 action given its position in the carryover sequence.

Race 7

Pace Analysis

A 2200-furlong turf route at Santa Anita will develop slowly, with horses settling into single file early on the backstretch before the pace builds toward the far turn. None Above The Law (POST 3) and Crazy Cavalier (POST 7) figure to be prominently placed, while Mythical Reel (POST 6) and Catch The Breeze (POST 4) will likely track the pace from favorable positions. The 2200-furlong distance rewards stamina and horses that can maintain a strong, consistent pace late — pure closers tend to be effective at this distance on firm turf.

Key Contenders

Catch The Breeze (POST 4) at 3-1 from Michael W. McCarthy's barn with Kazushi Kimura is a top pick in this race. McCarthy has an excellent record in turf routes at Santa Anita, and Kimura has developed good chemistry with the barn's turf horses this meet. The four-post in a 2200-furlong turf route is close to ideal — enough room to settle without being buried — and Catch The Breeze (POST 4) projects as a mid-pack tracker who can produce a sustained run through the long stretch.

Mythical Reel (POST 6) at 3-1 from Philip D'Amato and Antonio Fresu is the co-favorite and carries D'Amato's well-established turf training credentials into a race that suits his horses. At 3-1, Mythical Reel (POST 6) is equivalent in price to Catch The Breeze (POST 4), and the two are likely to fight out the finish. D'Amato's turf horses at 2200 furlongs have been competitive this meet.

Secondary Choices

None Above The Law (POST 3) at 5-1 from Peter Miller's barn with Joel Rosario is a high-class combination that cannot be dismissed. Miller is one of the most successful turf trainers in Southern California, and Rosario's record in turf routes at Santa Anita is excellent. None Above The Law (POST 3) at 5-1 may represent the best value in the race, and horses exiting Miller's barn for turf routes are consistently competitive. Crazy Cavalier (POST 7) at 4-1 from O'Neill with Juan J. Hernandez has the outside post but O'Neill's barn is firing at a strong clip, and Hernandez is comfortable navigating wide in routes.

Longshots

Living Life (POST 1) at 4-1 from Ronald W. Ellis and Hector Isaac Berrios is an inside post option that could stalk the pace and produce a solid effort at a competitive price. The rail in a 2200-furlong turf route is not ideal but is manageable with patient riding. Poor Connection (POST 5) at 6-1 is the second McCarthy entry, with E. Jaramillo up. Dual entries from a single barn complicate handicapping, but Poor Connection (POST 5) at 6-1 with McCarthy's turf record is a legitimate alternative. Oubabe (POST 2) at 15-1 from Leonard Powell and Cesar Belmont is a distant longshot in a field with several proven 5-1-or-better horses.

Selections

Win: None Above The Law (POST 3) Place: Mythical Reel (POST 6) Show: Catch The Breeze (POST 4)

Betting strategy: This race offers the best value play of the card with None Above The Law (POST 3) at 5-1 from the Miller-Rosario combination. A win bet on None Above The Law (POST 3) at 5-1 represents genuine overlay value relative to the trainer-jockey talent. The exacta combining None Above The Law (POST 3) with Mythical Reel (POST 6) and Catch The Breeze (POST 4) covers the logical main contenders. For trifecta players, include Crazy Cavalier (POST 7) and Living Life (POST 1) in the bottom slot.

RACE 8 — Post 7:32 — 1760f | D | C | Clm 10000b | BUM | Purse $18,000

A one-mile dirt claiming race at the bargain basement $10,000 level for fillies and mares. Ten horses are entered and the morning line features two co-favorites: Makenarita (POST 6) and Bear's Board (POST 8) at 2-1 each, with A Fleet Ride (POST 9) at 3-1.

Race 8

Pace Analysis

Ten horses going a mile at the $10,000 claiming level creates an unpredictable scenario. There will likely be multiple speed horses competing for the front end early, which could produce a pace collapse in the stretch and favor closers. Bear's Board (POST 8) from the O'Neill barn figures to be forwardly positioned, while Makenarita (POST 6) and A Fleet Ride (POST 9) may track or come from off the pace.

Key Contenders

Makenarita (POST 6) at 2-1 from the George Papaprodromou barn with Kazushi Kimura is one of two co-favorites. Papaprodromou runs a solid Southern California claiming operation and Makenarita (POST 6) in the six-hole at a mile on the dirt is well-positioned. Kimura has been effective this meet and the combination deserves respect at the short price.

Bear's Board (POST 8) at 2-1 from Doug O'Neill's barn with E. Jaramillo up is the other co-favorite. O'Neill's claiming horses at this level are dependably competitive, and the trainer has been active on this card already. The eight-post at a mile is workable and Bear's Board (POST 8) should be positioned to make a sustained run from mid-pack.

Secondary Choices

A Fleet Ride (POST 9) at 3-1 from Ryan Hanson's barn with E. Maldonado up is the third horse on the morning line with legitimate win potential. The nine-post at a mile adds a modest challenge but Hanson has positioned this horse for competitive action at the $10,000 level and 3-1 is a fair price for what appears to be a capable closer. Definitely Prbable (POST 4) at 6-1 from Vann Belvoir's barn with Ricardo Gonzalez is a mid-field option. Gonzalez has been on multiple competitive horses today, suggesting his book of rides is solid on this card.

Longshots

Subtle Knowledge (POST 5) at 15-1 from Jeff Mullins and Joel Rosario is an interesting combination given Mullins's recent barn form. Rosario being named on a 15-1 shot in a $10,000 claimer suggests there may be a performance angle, and Mullins horses are rarely without some upside. Molly Jensen (POST 2) at 15-1 from Cynthia A. Kelley with T.C. Baze is a deep longshot, and Baze's inclusion adds minor curiosity. Savannahs Big Girl (POST 7) at 20-1 from Steve M. Sherman and Kyle Frey is a fringe play at best. Crypto Crush (POST 1) at 30-1 from Jesus J. Uranga and Edgar Payeras, Victoria's Jewel (POST 3) at 30-1 from Papaprodromou and Ali Husain, and Selsae (POST 10) at 30-1 from Gloria Haley and Alfredo Bautista are all significant underdogs at their respective prices.

Selections

Win: Bear's Board (POST 8) Place: Makenarita (POST 6) Show: A Fleet Ride (POST 9)

Betting strategy: The O'Neill/Jaramillo connection on Bear's Board (POST 8) makes this horse the slight edge in a co-favorite race. An exacta box of Bear's Board (POST 8), Makenarita (POST 6), and A Fleet Ride (POST 9) covers the morning line top three, and a trifecta adding Definitely Prbable (POST 4) keeps the ticket live at a reasonable cost.

RACE 9 — Post 8:02 — 1320f | T | S | Md Sp Wt | GOM | Purse $65,000

The finale is a six-furlong turf maiden special weight for fillies and mares. Eleven horses are entered, and She's No Quant (POST 8) is the heavy morning line favorite at 2-1, while Marla Hooch (POST 4) and Zip Me Up (POST 6) share second-best billing at 4-1.

Race 9

Pace Analysis

Eleven horses in a six-furlong turf maiden sprint is a recipe for an eventful early pace with potential traffic complications. Multiple horses will try to establish early position, and the pace will likely be fairly honest. She's No Quant (POST 8) figures to come from off the pace, while Marla Hooch (POST 4) and Zip Me Up (POST 6) may be placed in pressing or tracking roles. The key in this race will be whether the closers can navigate traffic cleanly through the turn and into the stretch.

Key Contenders

She's No Quant (POST 8) at 2-1 from the Edward R. Freeman barn with Juan J. Hernandez riding is the clear public choice and the morning line leader. Hernandez has been highly active on today's card, appearing on multiple key horses, and his presence atop the morning line favorite in the finale suggests genuine intent. Freeman's turf maiden runners at Santa Anita carry credibility, and the 2-1 price reflects strong preparation and form. The eight-post in an eleven-horse turf sprint is workable if Hernandez can find early cover and a clear lane.

Marla Hooch (POST 4) at 4-1 from Philip D'Amato and Armando Ayuso is a highly credible alternative. D'Amato is superb with turf maidens and his horses at this distance and surface consistently show up ready to run. Marla Hooch (POST 4) from the four-post in a turf sprint has good positional value, and Ayuso is a capable rider who has been active on the card. At 4-1, this may be the best value in the race.

Secondary Choices

Zip Me Up (POST 6) at 4-1 from Carla Gaines's barn with Hector Isaac Berrios riding is a co-second choice. Gaines conditions a solid string of turf-oriented horses, and Zip Me Up (POST 6) from post six in an eleven-horse field has reasonable positional flexibility. Taking A Joy Ride (POST 1) at 5-1 from Craig A. Lewis and Kazushi Kimura gets the inside post, which is advantageous in a turf sprint if the horse can secure position. Lewis has been prolific on this card and Taking A Joy Ride (POST 1) represents a legitimate alternative at a price.

Sacred Sound (POST 3) at 5-1 from Peter Miller and Joel Rosario is another Miller-Rosario combination in the finale. As noted in Race 7, this tandem has earned respect in turf events at Santa Anita, and Sacred Sound (POST 3) at 5-1 in a maiden turf sprint cannot be dismissed — Miller is among the best turf trainers in the sport.

Longshots

Lyndee's Dream (POST 5) at 15-1 from Antonio C. Garcia and Kyle Frey is an outsider who would benefit from a chaotic early pace. Helping Hand (POST 7) at 12-1 from Mike Puype and Antonio Fresu is another mid-tier price in a deep field. Miss Hellfire (POST 10) at 20-1 is Puype's second entry with Kimura up — trainers entering two horses in a maiden race occasionally split the connection advantage between horses. Omfortheholidays (POST 9) at 30-1 from Antonio C. Garcia and Armando Aguilar is Garcia's second entry and a distant longshot. Clubhouse Deb (POST 2) at 20-1 from D'Amato and Tiago Pereira is a second D'Amato entry in this race — D'Amato running two horses here with Marla Hooch (POST 4) as the main and Clubhouse Deb (POST 2) as the secondary option. Florence Joyner (POST 11) at 30-1 from Steven Miyadi and E. Maldonado is a true long price from the outside post. The outside eleven-post in a six-furlong turf sprint is the most challenging draw and the 30-1 price is probably accurate.

Selections

Win: Marla Hooch (POST 4) Place: She's No Quant (POST 8) Show: Sacred Sound (POST 3)

Betting strategy: The value play in the finale is Marla Hooch (POST 4) at 4-1 from D'Amato's barn. D'Amato turf maidens at Santa Anita are reliable and the four-post is ideally positioned. A win bet on Marla Hooch (POST 4) offers a better return than the 2-1 favorite and represents the sharper play. The exacta combining Marla Hooch (POST 4) over She's No Quant (POST 8) and Sacred Sound (POST 3) is the primary play, with a reverse exacta of She's No Quant (POST 8) over Marla Hooch (POST 4) as the backup. A trifecta box of these three plus Zip Me Up (POST 6) rounds out the card-closing strategy.

Jockey Notes and Insights

Joel Rosario is the marquee rider on this card and appears in multiple key races. His assignments include Eva Lea (POST 2) in Race 3 at 1-1 (the short-priced favorite), Interplay (POST 4) in Race 1, None Above The Law (POST 3) in Race 7, Subtle Knowledge (POST 5) in Race 8, and Sacred Sound (POST 3) in the Race 9 finale. Rosario's presence on turf routes and maiden turf events is consistently impactful, and his book of rides today reflects genuine quality across the card. When Rosario is named at 5-1 or better in a turf route, the historical return on investment is strong.

Juan J. Hernandez appears extensively on today's card, most notably as the rider of She's No Quant (POST 8) in the finale and Sabino Canyon (POST 2) in the key Race 4 maiden. His pairing with Baffert-trained maidens is always meaningful, and his presence on the morning line favorite in Race 9 signals stable confidence.

Antonio Fresu holds the mount on the consensus best bet of the card, Decisive Win (POST 5) in Race 4, and also rides Rehearsal (POST 1) in Race 1 and Mythical Reel (POST 6) in Race 7. Fresu has carved out a solid role in the Southern California jockey colony and his association with the D'Amato and O'Neill barns gives him access to quality horseflesh throughout the card.

Kazushi Kimura rides Orange Thunder (POST 2) in Race 1, Otto's Magic (POST 3) in Race 2, Ghostwritten (POST 3) in Race 4, Travelin' Show (POST 3) in Race 5, Sensational Z Z (POST 1) in Race 6, Catch The Breeze (POST 4) in Race 7, Makenarita (POST 6) in Race 8, and Taking A Joy Ride (POST 1) in Race 9. Kimura's extensive book of rides suggests he has been building strong relationships with multiple trainers on the circuit. His workload today is arguably the heaviest of any rider on the card.

E. Jaramillo is active throughout the card and holds particularly notable mounts on Cosmo Friday (POST 1) in Race 3, Essos (POST 1) in Race 4, News At Ten (POST 5) in Race 5, Channel Place (POST 6) in Race 1, Poor Connection (POST 5) in Race 7, and Bear's Board (POST 8) in Race 8.

Trainer Notes and Insights

Doug O'Neill has horses spread across nearly every race on this card, an unmistakable sign of an active, successful barn at the peak of the spring meet. His horses today include Channel Place (POST 6) in Race 1, Cosmo Friday (POST 1) in Race 3, Decisive Win (POST 5) in Race 4 (the card's best bet), Crazy Cavalier (POST 7) in Race 7, and Bear's Board (POST 8) in Race 8. O'Neill's win percentage with horses placed at appropriate class levels is one of the highest in Southern California, and multiple of his entries today are live.

Philip D'Amato has horses in Race 1 with Rehearsal (POST 1), Race 2 with Otto's Magic (POST 3), Race 6 with Wishes To Riches (POST 3), Race 7 with Mythical Reel (POST 6), and Race 9 with both Marla Hooch (POST 4) and Clubhouse Deb (POST 2). D'Amato's turf record at Santa Anita is among the best of any trainer in the country, and when he runs on grass, the horses deserve serious consideration regardless of morning line price. His decision to run two horses in the Race 9 finale is notable — Marla Hooch (POST 4) is the shorter-priced main choice.

Bob Baffert has two entries in Race 4 — Sabino Canyon (POST 2) at 4-1 with Juan J. Hernandez and One More Time (POST 6) at 8-1 with Joel Rosario. Baffert's maiden runners at Santa Anita carry outsized win percentages and both horses deserve respect. The fact that Rosario was named on the longer-priced One More Time (POST 6) is worth monitoring as post time approaches.

Jeff Mullins runs Liam Smith (POST 9) in Race 5 and Subtle Knowledge (POST 5) in Race 8. Mullins had a prominent recent win with Queen Maxima in the Mizdirection Stakes, and his barn is clearly in good form heading into the holiday weekend.

Michael W. McCarthy has a strong presence with Broheim (POST 4) in Race 4 and dual entries Catch The Breeze (POST 4) and Poor Connection (POST 5) in Race 7. McCarthy's turf route horses have been performing well at Santa Anita this meet.

Peter Miller saddles None Above The Law (POST 3) in Race 7 and Sacred Sound (POST 3) in Race 9. Miller's turf record is elite among Southern California trainers and his horses deserve above-market respect in both races.

Best Wagering Strategies and Value Plays

The Pick 6 carryover beginning in Race 4 is the centerpiece wagering opportunity of the day, with the pool potentially exceeding $400,000. The following approach is recommended for serious Pick 6 players:

Race 9: Use MARLA HOOCH (POST 4), SHE’S NO QUANT (POST 8), and SACRED SOUND (POST 3) as the primary three, with TAKING A JOY RIDE (POST 1) added on wider tickets.

A base ticket structure of 1 x 3 x 2 x 3 x 3 x 3 produces 162 combinations. At a $0.20 base, the ticket cost is $32.40, which is highly manageable relative to a $400,000-plus pool. A $0.50 base would cost $81, and a $1.00 base comes to $162.

Value plays for individual race wagering: None Above The Law (POST 3) in Race 7 at 5-1 is the best single-race value bet on the card based on trainer-jockey credentials relative to morning line price. Marla Hooch (POST 4) in Race 9 at 4-1 from the D'Amato barn in a turf maiden sprint is the second-best value play. Broheim (POST 4) in Race 4 at 6-1 from the McCarthy barn represents an interesting underlay in the carryover race and is worth including in exacta and trifecta tickets even if not backed to win.

The late Pick 5, as noted in handicapping previews for this card, begins in Race 5 and runs through the finale. Consult the Pick 6 structure above for the relevant legs — the same horse selection applies to a corresponding Pick 5 strategy beginning with Race 5. This sequence will generate significant action given the Memorial Day weekend build-up and may produce attractive payoffs even in the non-carryover pool.

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


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