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Aqueduct Racetrack – Pick Pony Handicapper Report & Tip Sheet – News and Analysis for the March 15, 2026 card

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Sunday's Aqueduct card for March 15, 2026 comes late in the winter meet, with eight dirt races and a mix of maiden claiming, open claiming, statebred allowance, and starter allowance events. The program is compact but competitive, with several short fields that will magnify pace and trip, and a couple of lower-level maiden claimers where intent and barn patterns matter as much as raw figures.

Recent track trends in mid-March show the surface playing generally fair, with a modest lean toward forward horses when the wind is up, but without the extreme rail-and-speed bias seen earlier in some winter meets. Purse levels on this card range from 26,500 to 79,000, with New York-bred conditions in Races 2 and 7 likely to feature horses familiar with this surface and configuration.

Weather and Track Conditions

Forecasts for the Aqueduct area on Sunday, March 15, 2026 call for cool temperatures with overcast skies in the morning and a chance of light rain or patchy showers in the afternoon, with highs in the upper 40s. Winds are expected to be light to moderate, which should limit any extreme speed enhancement from tailwinds down the backstretch.​

NYRA's track trends report for the preceding days shows a fast track on Saturday, March 14, with the surface described as playing fairly, suggesting maintenance has the cushion and moisture content in balance. Unless rain intensifies more than forecast, the main track is most likely to start and remain fast, though a light drizzle could slightly tighten the surface and help horses with tactical speed and comfortable footing in mild moisture.

Track Bias and Post Position Bias

Longer-term Aqueduct configuration notes and bias studies suggest that in sprints and one-turn miles, inside to mid posts (roughly 1 through 6) have historically performed well, particularly in small fields like many we see today. The old “speed-favoring inner” reputation has been tempered since resurfacing; current data indicate a more versatile surface that allows both speed and off-the-pace types to win when trips are clean.

NYRA's recent track trends around this date indicate that the last several cards have been largely fair, with some prior days showing a benefit to saving ground and being forward, but not to the degree that you must downgrade every outside closer. Given today's small to medium fields and likely fast track, I will lean slightly toward horses with tactical speed and posts that can secure a stalking or pressing position into the turn, especially in the 6 and 6.5 furlong events.

1st Race – Aqueduct – Sunday, March 15th, 2026

Claiming, 6 furlongs, dirt, purse 38,000, three-year-olds that have never won two races, claiming 25,000 (New York-bred 30,000).​

Field: Escape Hall (1), Miami Kaz (2), Mercilesanihilator (3), Essentially Fast (4), Manhattan Chrome (5), Mo Spice (6).​

Post Time

Scheduled post time is 1:10 PM ET.​

Pace Analysis

This is a compact six-horse field where pace dynamics will hinge on which runners show early intent second off or third off the layoff in this condition. With several lightly raced three-year-olds, there is a strong chance at least two try to force the issue early. The outside pair Manhattan Chrome (5) and Mo Spice (6) both project as pace players or close pressers based on typical patterns for their connections, with Manhattan Chrome (5) somewhat more likely to show controlling speed given his profile and barn. Inside, Escape Hall (1) can sit handy from the rail, while Miami Kaz (2) and Mercilesanihilator (3) look more like midpack stalkers. Essentially Fast (4) appears more trip-dependent and could be caught in between if he breaks only fairly.

Expect an honest, not blistering, 6 furlong tempo: Manhattan Chrome (5) and Mo Spice (6) vying up front, Escape Hall (1) saving ground behind, and Miami Kaz (2) in the second flight waiting to pounce. A meltdown is unlikely; horses who can sit within two to three lengths of the lead turning for home should have the edge.

Key Contenders

Manhattan Chrome (5)
This colt brings a strong profile for this level and distance, with a high-percentage barn adept at placing three-year-olds in winning spots once they clear their maiden condition. With Manuel Franco up, Manhattan Chrome (5) is drawn ideally to use tactical speed without immediate inside pressure, and connections often intend to control small fields like this from just off the rail. His likely pattern suggests he may be cycling forward second or third off a break and should be comfortable on a fast Aqueduct surface.

Mo Spice (6)
Mo Spice (6), from the Linda Rice barn with Jose Lezcano, offers a potent trainer-jockey combination that is reliable in these claiming-level sprints. Rice runners often show improved early speed when dropped into realistic spots, and Lezcano's style fits a pressing trip from the outside gate, allowing him to sit just off Manhattan Chrome (5) or clear if he breaks sharply. Mo Spice (6) should be in the right spot turning for home and represents a strong win threat if he holds his form.

Miami Kaz (2)
Miami Kaz (2) appears to be the main off-the-pace danger, with Ricardo Santana Jr. in the irons for a barn that can move horses up in claiming conditions. From the two-hole, Santana should be able to tuck in behind the leading pair and look for a seam in upper stretch. If the leaders overdo it in the first half-mile, Miami Kaz (2) has the right stalking position to grind past late at a potentially fair price.

Secondary Choices

Escape Hall (1)
Escape Hall (1) draws the rail for a trainer who can get horses to utilize inside trips effectively in short fields. His task is to break cleanly and secure a ground-saving spot just behind the speed, avoiding being shuffled back. If he can stay within striking range and the inside path is not disadvantageous today, Escape Hall (1) could get a favorable trip and grab a share, particularly underneath in exactas and trifectas.

Mercilesanihilator (3)
Mercilesanihilator (3), one of two from the Rice barn, is paired with Sahin Civaci and looks more like an in-between type who may stalk but lacks the tactical early punch of Mo Spice (6). He could benefit if the race turns into more of a stamina test in the lane, but in a fairly run six-furlong affair, he seems slightly up against the top tier. Still, barn form and small field dynamics give him a realistic chance to fill out vertical exotics.

Longshots

Essentially Fast (4)
Essentially Fast (4) may be overlooked on the tote board but has a chance to outrun his odds if he can carve out a midpack trip and finish with some interest. He does not appear to be as fast early as the outer pair and may be forced to take back and angle outside into the lane. In a race without clear collapsers, he looks more like a minor award candidate, but he should be mentioned in deeper trifecta or superfecta tickets in case the leading players fail to fire.

Selections

Win Manhattan Chrome (5)
Place Mo Spice (6)
Show Miami Kaz (2)

Suggested wagers: Win on Manhattan Chrome (5) if he is not overbet below a fair price line. Use Manhattan Chrome (5) and Mo Spice (6) as A-level horses in exactas, with Miami Kaz (2) and Escape Hall (1) in B-level underneath positions. Consider a small trifecta 5,6 with 5,6,2 with 1,2,3,4.

2nd Race – Aqueduct – Sunday, March 15th, 2026

Allowance Optional Claiming, New York-bred fillies and mares, 6.5 furlongs, dirt, purse 79,000, for statebreds that have never won 20,000 twice other than maiden, claiming or starter or never won three races, or for 45,000 claiming.​

Field: Soloshot (1), Munnings Express (2), Howling Wind (3), Princess Becca (4), Mommasgottagun (5).​

Scratch watch shows previous scratches for Howling Wind (3) due to private vet illness, but that is historical and does not by itself indicate a scratch here; check live updates before wagering.​

Post Time

Scheduled post time is 1:42 PM ET.​

Pace Analysis

This five-horse field is ripe for pace control, and the winner will likely come from the two or three horses that are closest to the early lead. Munnings Express (2) figures as a primary pace player, with the ability to show speed from an inside-mid post, while Mommasgottagun (5) has enough early foot to be forward from the outside. Soloshot (1) from the rail has tactical speed and could be forced to hold position early to avoid being shuffled back, while Princess Becca (4) may sit just off the pace and look to pounce.

The presence of Howling Wind (3), who may be more of a stalking type, adds one more horse to the second flight but likely does not create a contested, suicidal pace scenario. Expect moderate fractions with Munnings Express (2) and Mommasgottagun (5) prominent, and a first run scenario for Princess Becca (4) or Soloshot (1) if they are good enough.

Key Contenders

Munnings Express (2)
Munnings Express (2) looks like the controlling speed or co-speed in a race where tactical position is paramount. From a prolific barn that excels in New York-bred sprint stakes and allowance races, she should be well-spotted here, and Jose Lezcano's style of nursing speed over 6.5 furlongs at Aqueduct is a proven angle. She projects to either clear or sit a half-length off Mommasgottagun (5), and if she shakes loose by mid-stretch, she will be very difficult to run down.

Princess Becca (4)
Princess Becca (4) brings a strong allowance profile with Kendrick Carmouche, who is aggressive out of the gate but also adept at sitting just off the speed and making a decisive move at the 3/8 pole. She may not be as naturally quick early as Munnings Express (2), but from post 4 she can sit outside Soloshot (1) and inside Mommasgottagun (5), a perfect stalking slot. If the two pace players soften each other up just enough, Princess Becca (4) is in the best position to capitalize.

Soloshot (1)
Soloshot (1), trained by Ilkay Kantarmaci with Manuel Franco aboard, is another logical contender given her inside draw and trainer's knack for maximizing rail trips at this meet. She will need to secure position into the first bend and avoid getting boxed, but if she holds the pocket behind Munnings Express (2), she can get a dream trip. She might be better for underneath in multi-horse exotics, but an uptick in form could make her a serious win threat.

Secondary Choices

Mommasgottagun (5)
Mommasgottagun (5), another Linda Rice entrant with Sahin Civaci riding, profiles as an outside pace factor who could be forced to either commit early or risk being hung wide. The combination suggests intent, and she has enough early speed to participate up front, but she will have to be efficient to not lose ground on both turns at 6.5 furlongs. If she clears or sits comfortably outside Munnings Express (2) without a duel, her chances rise, but she is more likely to serve as a pace presence and an underneath use in exactas and trifectas.

Longshots

Howling Wind (3)
Howling Wind (3) appears a cut below the top tier on current form, especially considering her prior scratch history for illness. She could be sharper second or third start after those issues, but at this allowance/optional level she will probably need several things to go right: an unexpected duel, a perfect inside-out trip, and a step forward in form. She is not impossible to pick up pieces late, but she is best viewed as a longshot exotic filler unless very positive tote or paddock signals emerge.

Selections

Win Munnings Express (2)
Place Princess Becca (4)
Show Soloshot (1)

Suggested wagers: Win on Munnings Express (2) at a fair price. Use exactas 2 with 1,4,5 and 1,4 with 2. In small fields like this, consider a cold exacta 2 over 4 if the odds justify the risk.

3rd Race – Aqueduct – Sunday, March 15th, 2026

Claiming, 1 mile, dirt, purse 54,000 (up to 9,396 NYSBFOA), for four-year-olds and upward, claiming price 30,000 (New York-bred 35,000).​

Field: Cicciobello (1), Mr. Papagiorgio (2), Frizzante (3), Commuted (4), Chelonian (5), Shared Success (6).​

Scratch watch notes that Mr. Papagiorgio (2) had a prior trainer scratch at Laurel, but that is not automatically a scratch here; verify on race day.​

Post Time

Scheduled post time is 2:13 PM ET.​

Pace Analysis

This is a one-turn mile with several seasoned claimers whose running styles are fairly established. Cicciobello (1) can show inside speed or tactical pace, while Commuted (4) from the Rice barn is likely to be forward or pressing. Chelonian (5) and Frizzante (3) look like midpack stalkers, and Shared Success (6) more of a later-running type at this stage of his career. Mr. Papagiorgio (2), with Flavien Prat aboard, may be ridden more aggressively than usual to secure a good spot early.

Overall, expect an honest but not overly hot pace, with Cicciobello (1) and Commuted (4) likely closest to the front, and Mr. Papagiorgio (2) trying to get in the clear outside them. Horses with tactical speed and stamina—those sitting within three lengths of the lead down the backstretch—should have an advantage.

Key Contenders

Mr. Papagiorgio (2)
Mr. Papagiorgio (2) looks like a strong fit for this level, especially with Flavien Prat taking the call for Richard Dutrow Jr. This is a high-percentage combination that often signals live intent when shipping or placing a horse in a New York claiming spot. From post 2, Mr. Papagiorgio (2) can sit just off Cicciobello (1) and Commuted (4), and his one-turn mile profile suggests he can finish strongly if given a clear run.

Commuted (4)
Commuted (4) for Linda Rice with Ricardo Santana Jr. is a classic Rice mid-level claimer, likely to be well-placed near the lead and asked to sustain a long drive. The Rice-Santana pairing should ensure an aggressive ride into the first turn, putting Commuted (4) in position to control or press. If the track is playing at all kindly to forward types, Commuted (4) could prove very tough to reel in.

Chelonian (5)
Chelonian (5), trained by Michelle Giangiulio and ridden by Kendrick Carmouche, adds another strong contender to this field. Carmouche's ability to judge pace and work out good trips in one-turn miles is well-documented, and Chelonian (5) may sit a perfect stalking trip behind the inside speed. If Mr. Papagiorgio (2) or Commuted (4) stub their toe, Chelonian (5) could be the one picking up pieces late at a decent price.

Secondary Choices

Cicciobello (1)
Cicciobello (1), from the rail, is an older gelding with enough tactical speed to at least make the front runners honest. With Christopher Elliott aboard for Oscar Barrera III, the plan is likely to hold position on the rail and see if he can gut it out. Age and miles may limit his upside, but he could hold on for a minor share if the pace is measured and he is not pressured excessively.

Frizzante (3)
Frizzante (3), with Jaime Rodriguez up for Steven Schauer, profiles as a midpack type who will try to save ground and make one run. He likely needs the top three or four to underperform or get involved in a mild duel. He can grab a piece, especially if the race shape tilts more toward a closer's setup than expected.

Longshots

Shared Success (6)
Shared Success (6), a nine-year-old, is nearing the late stages of his career. With Reylu Gutierrez riding for James Bentley Begg, he will probably be taken back and asked for a late run. Age and declining speed make him a longshot, but he can still clunk up for fourth or third if the pace is sharper than forecast or if others falter.

Selections

Win Mr. Papagiorgio (2)
Place Commuted (4)
Show Chelonian (5)

Suggested wagers: Win on Mr. Papagiorgio (2) at fair odds. Exactas 2 with 4,5 and a saver 4 with 2,5. Consider using 2,4 as A-level in multi-race sequences, with 5 as a backup.

4th Race – Aqueduct – Sunday, March 15th, 2026

Claiming, 7 furlongs, dirt, purse 41,000 (up to 7,134 NYSBFOA), for three-year-olds and upward that have never won two races, claiming 30,000.​

Field: Three Little Birds (1), Lean Music Machine (2), Red Miller (3), Moment's Notice (4), Thirteen G's (5), Givememythememusic (6), Middle Market (7).​

Post Time

Scheduled post time is 2:44 PM ET.​

Pace Analysis

At 7 furlongs with a mix of lightly raced and somewhat established runners, the pace could be legitimate. Three Little Birds (1) and Thirteen G's (5) both figure to be key pace components, with Red Miller (3) and Givememythememusic (6) likely in close attendance. Middle Market (7) from the outside could be urged to secure position into the turn, while Lean Music Machine (2) may be content to settle midpack.

The projected scenario has Three Little Birds (1) intent from the rail, with Thirteen G's (5) applying pressure from mid-gate, and Middle Market (7) trying not to be hung wide. If two or three of these commit, the race could set up well for a stalker like Moment's Notice (4) who can sit in the second flight and finish strongly.

Key Contenders

Thirteen G's (5)
Thirteen G's (5), for Linda Rice with Kendrick Carmouche, is a key player here. This combination excels in one-turn claiming races, and Carmouche is especially adept at securing forward, positionally advantaged trips at 7 furlongs. Thirteen G's (5) should be able to race just off the inside speed, and if he gets the jump turning for home, he will be hard to deny.

Moment's Notice (4)
Moment's Notice (4), trained by Christophe Clement with Manuel Franco aboard, represents the main stalking danger. Clement usually places his horses where they can win, and this type of non-winners of two claiming spot fits a horse who maybe was competitive in higher-level maidens or allowances. From post 4, Franco can sit behind the speed trio and launch a timely move; if the leaders soften each other up, Moment's Notice (4) can run them down late.

Three Little Birds (1)
Three Little Birds (1), drawn inside with Ricardo Santana Jr. for Charlton Baker, is a pace and trip horse. If he breaks sharply and controls the inside, he could either wire them or at least hang around for a top-three finish. Baker's barn can pop at this level, and Santana's aggression out of the gate is an asset; the risk is that he faces heavy pressure and fades.

Secondary Choices

Middle Market (7)
Middle Market (7) with Jose Lezcano for Marcelo Arenas is the outside participant in the pace equation. The wide draw is not ideal at 7 furlongs if he lacks a clear speed edge, but Lezcano may try to tuck in behind the main pace group instead of engaging in a duel. If Middle Market (7) can get a comfortable stalking trip three wide, he has a chance to be involved, though he is likelier an underneath horse in exotics.

Red Miller (3)
Red Miller (3), with Reylu Gutierrez for John Terranova, should be part of the early vanguard or at least in close range. He might not be quite as sharp as the top speed horses, but he can be in the fight to the top of the stretch. From there, his ability to stay the 7 furlongs determines whether he hangs on for a piece.

Givememythememusic (6)
Givememythememusic (6) for Devon Gittens with Jorge Vargas Jr. could be a midpack or pressing type. He seems a notch below the top ones on paper but can get a good stalking trip if the early pace is contested. He is interesting as a price horse to fill out tris and supers if he improves slightly.

Longshots

Lean Music Machine (2)
Lean Music Machine (2), also for Devon Gittens with Jose Antonio Gomez, looks more like a longshot. He may drop back early and try to make a run, but given the class and pace dynamics, he likely needs significant help to threaten the top tier. Consider him only in deep exotics as a possible fourth-place finisher at a big number.

Selections

Win Thirteen G's (5)
Place Moment's Notice (4)
Show Three Little Birds (1)

Suggested wagers: Win on Thirteen G's (5), exactas 5 with 1,4,7 and 4 with 1,5. Trifectas 5,4 with 5,4,1 with 1,3,6,7.

5th Race – Aqueduct – Sunday, March 15th, 2026

Maiden Claiming, 6.5 furlongs, dirt, purse 26,500, for maidens three-year-olds and upward, claiming 12,500 (New York-bred 16,000).​

Field: Jamaica Redd (1), Midnight Musume (2), Monte Avi (3), The Hero Code (4), So Spirited (5), Killybegs Kid (6), Winegold (7).​

Post Time

Scheduled post time is 3:15 PM ET.​

Pace Analysis

Maiden claimers at this level often produce chaotic pace scenarios, but here the small field shapes up with several potential forward types. So Spirited (5) for Linda Rice with Jose Lezcano appears likely to be a key pace presence, and Killybegs Kid (6) with Jaime Rodriguez for John Terranova should not be far away. Jamaica Redd (1) and Monte Avi (3) can show some early interest, while others may trail.

Expect an honest pace with So Spirited (5) and Killybegs Kid (6) up front, and midpack runners like Monte Avi (3) tracking. Given the modest quality, horses that secure clean trips without traffic issues will have a major advantage.

Key Contenders

So Spirited (5)
So Spirited (5) looks like a standout on connections and likely trip, being a Linda Rice trainee ridden by Jose Lezcano in a soft maiden claiming spot. This barn typically moves horses up dramatically on a drop into realistic company, and So Spirited (5) should be sent early to secure a forward position. If he can control or sit just off the pace, his combination of class relief and tactical speed makes him the most likely winner.

Killybegs Kid (6)
Killybegs Kid (6), with Jaime Rodriguez riding for John Terranova, is the main threat. Terranova can improve horses significantly on a drop in class, and this gelding should be physically suited to the 6.5 furlong distance. He should be in the first flight with So Spirited (5), and if that rival falters or fails to move forward, Killybegs Kid (6) will be ready to pick up the pieces.

Monte Avi (3)
Monte Avi (3) for Mark Hennig with Jose Antonio Gomez is a reasonable contender, especially if he has shown any late-running ability in prior starts. Hennig often improves horses with racing, and this may be the right level to break through. From post 3, Monte Avi (3) should secure a midpack, inside-out trip, giving him a chance to capitalize if the top two do not deliver.

Secondary Choices

Jamaica Redd (1)
Jamaica Redd (1), from the rail with Trevor Simpson riding for Marvin Richards, could flash enough early speed to hold position and surprise. His inside draw allows him to save ground, but he must break well to avoid being squeezed. As a more speculative play, Jamaica Redd (1) can be used underneath in tris and supers.

Winegold (7)
Winegold (7), with Ruben Silvera for Leah Gyarmati, may be trying blinkers off or a change in tactics given the “o” notation in his equipment line. From the outside, he might be asked to show more early intent to avoid being caught wide. If the equipment change sparks improvement, Winegold (7) could outrun his odds and hit the board.

Longshots

Midnight Musume (2)
Midnight Musume (2), with apprentice Dalila Rivera for Antonio Arriaga, appears a longshot on paper. The weight allowance may help, but he will likely need a significant step forward and some chaos in front. He is a fringe exotic inclusion for deep tickets at best.

The Hero Code (4)
The Hero Code (4), with Omar Hernandez Moreno for A. Lands Trites, also looks like a reach on form. Without clear evidence of ability at this level, he is best treated as a true longshot.

Selections

Win So Spirited (5)
Place Killybegs Kid (6)
Show Monte Avi (3)

Suggested wagers: Win on So Spirited (5). Exactas 5 with 3,6 and 6 with 5. A small saver trifecta 5,6 with 3,5,6 with 1,3,6,7 can catch value if a longer price grabs third.

6th Race – Aqueduct – Sunday, March 15th, 2026

Claiming, 6 furlongs, dirt, purse 27,500, for fillies and mares three-year-olds and upward that have never won two races, claiming 12,500.​

Field: Jay's Love (1), Take Me To Londyn (2), Sabby Sunset (3), Tammy's Cruiser (4), Itwillbefun (5), Eleni (6), Syl's Pleasure (7).​

Scratch watch shows prior steward scratches for Itwillbefun (5) at Parx, which may or may not be relevant; check day-of scratches.​

Post Time

Scheduled post time is 3:46 PM ET.​

Pace Analysis

This is a competitive sprint with multiple possible pace players. Take Me To Londyn (2) for Brad Cox with Jaime Rodriguez is a prime candidate to show speed, and Eleni (6) with Ricardo Santana Jr. figures to be prominent as well. Itwillbefun (5), from the Kantarmaci barn with Gokhan Kocakaya, can also be on or near the lead if she breaks sharply. Jay's Love (1), Tammy's Cruiser (4), Sabby Sunset (3), and Syl's Pleasure (7) could all be in the second wave.

Overall, anticipate a lively pace, with three or four fillies vying early. This opens the door for a stalker who can sit just off and finish, but the race could still be taken gate-to-wire by the right speed if the track is playing kindly.

Key Contenders

Take Me To Londyn (2)
Take Me to Londyn (2) stands out on trainer intent and potential class edge. Brad Cox does not often waste starts at this level without a strong reason, and this filly may be dropping to get a confidence-boosting win. From post 2 with Jaime Rodriguez, she can go right to the front or sit just off any desperate speed; in either case, she should be in the right spot.

Tammy's Cruiser (4)
Tammy's Cruiser (4), trained by Ilkay Kantarmaci with Manuel Franco, is a key stalking player. Kantarmaci runners in these mid-claiming conditions tend to be fit and ready, and Franco's style of sitting in the second flight then asking for run at the top of the lane suits this race shape. If Take Me To Londyn (2) and others engage in a duel, Tammy's Cruiser (4) is the filly most likely to benefit.

Eleni (6)
Eleni (6), with Santana riding for Dimitrios Synnefias, will be part of the pace picture. Santana's aggression often ensures that his mounts are in the first rank early, and if Eleni (6) controls or sits an easy pressing trip, she could take them a long way. She may be slightly pace-dependent, but she is a legitimate win threat.

Secondary Choices

Itwillbefun (5)
Itwillbefun (5), another Kantarmaci trainee, brings some uncertainty due to prior steward scratches at Parx, but if she is ready, she has enough speed to matter. Gokhan Kocakaya tends to put horses into the race early, so she may be part of that initial wave. She is more of an underneath and backup win candidate given the presence of higher-profile connections, but she can absolutely win if she fires.

Sabby Sunset (3)
Sabby Sunset (3), for John Terranova with Reylu Gutierrez, could sit a stalking trip. She appears a bit below the top trio in terms of raw ability but can pick up minor awards. If the pace melts, she could improve her placing.

Syl's Pleasure (7)
Syl's Pleasure (7), with Christopher Elliott for Paul Barrow, likely will have to overcome a wide post and could be used more conservatively early. She is another candidate for minor shares more than the win.

Longshots

Jay's Love (1)
Jay's Love (1), trained by Gina Giglio and ridden by Dalila Rivera, has the rail and a weight allowance but appears to be a longshot on form. She may get an inside trip and could hold on for a slice if things go perfectly, but she is not among the top win candidates.

Selections

Win Take Me To Londyn (2)
Place Tammy's Cruiser (4)
Show Eleni (6)

Suggested wagers: Win on Take Me To Londyn (2). Exactas 2 with 4,6,5 and 4 with 2,6 as a saver. For trifectas, consider 2,4 with 2,4,6 with 1,3,5,6,7.

7th Race – Aqueduct – Sunday, March 15th, 2026

Starter Allowance, 1 mile, dirt, purse 57,000, New York-bred three-year-olds and upward that have started for 35,000 or less and never won a race other than maiden or claiming.​

Field: E Z Bourbon (1), Dr. Merciless (2), Ez Roll (3), Caddiemaster (4), Solo Dancing (5), Kismeholdmethrlme (6), Oath Of Omerta (7), Resilient Hero (8).​

Scratch watch shows prior private vet illness scratches for Dr. Merciless (2) and Ez Roll (3), which should be monitored for current status.​

Post Time

Scheduled post time is 4:17 PM ET.​

Pace Analysis

This one-turn mile for starter allowance statebreds looks like a race where tactical speed and stamina will be crucial. Caddiemaster (4) for Linda Rice with Manuel Franco and Solo Dancing (5) with Ricardo Santana Jr. for Ralph D'Alessandro both project as forward types. Ez Roll (3) can also show speed if fully healthy, and E Z Bourbon (1) may be urged from the rail to hold position. Resilient Hero (8) and Oath Of Omerta (7) likely come from off the pace.

Pace figures to be honest, perhaps slightly above par if multiple horses with prior sprint speed stretch out or if riders do not concede the lead. Horses sitting third to fifth early with a clear outside run should be well-positioned.

Key Contenders

Caddiemaster (4)
Caddiemaster (4) looks like a central player, combining a strong conditioner, Linda Rice, with a top local rider in Manuel Franco. He likely will be placed near the lead, either controlling or pressing, and Rice has repeatedly excelled in these starter allowance conditions. If he can carve out moderate fractions and kick on, he has a strong chance to win.

E Z Bourbon (1)
E Z Bourbon (1), for Mark Hennig with Reylu Gutierrez, is a major contender, particularly if he can work out an inside stalking trip. Hennig is reliable at improving horses through conditions, and this starter allowance spot is a logical next step for a New York-bred with prior claiming success. If E Z Bourbon (1) can stay off a potential rail speed duel and tip out in the lane, he will be finishing well.

Solo Dancing (5)
Solo Dancing (5) with Santana for D'Alessandro has the right rider to get an aggressive, winning trip. From post 5, he can sit outside Caddiemaster (4) and E Z Bourbon (1) and apply pressure. If he proves to handle the mile well and is fit coming into this, he is a serious win threat.

Secondary Choices

Ez Roll (3)
Ez Roll (3) for Raymond Handal with Jorge Vargas Jr. presents a bit of a question mark due to prior illness scratches, but in terms of ability he fits very well. If he returns to prior form, he could either make the lead or sit just off and pounce. As a risk-reward play, Ez Roll (3) is useful in multi-race exotics and as a backup win candidate if the tote indicates health and intent.

Oath Of Omerta (7)
Oath of Omerta (7), trained by Jena Antonucci with Christopher Elliott, is more of a stalking or midpack type. Antonucci's barn can spring upsets, especially with horses that quietly improve in starter and allowance company. From post 7, Oath of Omerta (7) can avoid traffic and make a sustained outside run, making him a good candidate for underneath in exactas and tris.

Resilient Hero (8)
Resilient Hero (8), with Dalila Rivera for Jose Jimenez, gets weight relief and an outside draw. He may be ridden more conservatively early and look to pass tired horses late. He is more likely to fill out vertical exotics unless the pace melts.

Longshots

Dr. Merciless (2)
Dr. Merciless (2), with Omar Hernandez Moreno for Marvin Richards, has the prior illness scratch question and may be a step below the top runners here. He likely needs a fair bit of improvement to threaten the win spot.

Kismeholdmethrlme (6)
Kismeholdmethrlme (6), ridden by Eric Cancel for Rachel Sells, is also up against it in this spot. He may try to sit midpack and run on, but given the overall competition, he appears more of a fourth-place possibility.

Selections

Win Caddiemaster (4)
Place E Z Bourbon (1)
Show Solo Dancing (5)

Suggested wagers: Win on Caddiemaster (4). Exactas 4 with 1,3,5 and 1 with 3,4 as a saver. For multi-race bets, use 1,4,5 as A-level, with 3,7 as backups.

8th Race – Aqueduct – Sunday, March 15th, 2026

Maiden Claiming, 6.5 furlongs, dirt, purse 26,500, for maidens three-year-olds and upward, claiming 12,500 (New York-bred 16,000).​

Field: Plex (1), Grey Ace (2), Daw Samaa (3), Shellac (4), Chips And Fish (5), Astern Command (6), Lough Currane (7), Senor Poncho (8).​

Post Time

Scheduled post time is 4:48 PM ET.​

Pace Analysis

Another lower-level maiden claimer at 6.5 furlongs, with a mix of inexperienced and exposed runners. Shellac (4) with Flavien Prat for William Morey looks like a significant class dropper who may show good tactical speed. Chips And Fish (5) with Jorge Vargas Jr. and Lough Currane (7) with Jaime Rodriguez should also be forward, while Plex (1) from the rail with Manuel Franco could be urged to hold position. Daw Samaa (3), Astern Command (6), Grey Ace (2), and Senor Poncho (8) may be chasing.

This race projects to have a solid, honest pace, and quality plus trip should decide it. Given the presence of Shellac (4) with a top rider, he may sit a perfect stalking trip and take over turning for home.

Key Contenders

Shellac (4)
Shellac (4) stands out on paper given the combination of Flavien Prat and William Morey, suggesting a serious intent to win at this level. This gelding should have enough early speed to avoid traffic and sit just off the pace set by Chips And Fish (5) or others. With class relief and top-tier riding, Shellac (4) appears the most likely winner if he breaks cleanly and handles the surface.

Plex (1)
Plex (1), trained by Fernando Abreu with Manuel Franco up, draws the rail in this maiden claimer. If he can break sharply, he may secure a ground-saving trip either on or just behind the lead. Franco's familiarity with the track and his ability to work out inside trips give Plex (1) a chance to make a big step forward.

Lough Currane (7)
Lough Currane (7), for John Terranova with Jaime Rodriguez, is another logical contender. The outside draw allows him to stay in the clear, and Terranova's horses often move up when placed at realistic levels. If Lough Currane (7) can sit just behind the early speed and launch a run down the center of the track, he has a good chance to hit the frame.

Secondary Choices

Chips And Fish (5)
Chips and Fish (5), from the Arriaga barn with Jorge Vargas Jr., is a pace factor. He may go forward early and try to take them as far as he can. If he gets loose or is not pressured, he could be more dangerous than his odds suggest, though he is more of a win-backup and stronger exotic candidate.

Astern Command (6)
Astern Command (6), with Christopher Elliott for James Ryerson, looks like a midpack type who might improve with the distance and experience. Ryerson can get horses to wake up in maiden claimers after several tries; Astern Command (6) fits as a potential third or fourth-place finisher.

Grey Ace (2)
Grey Ace (2), with Ruben Silvera for Mitchell Friedman, could be a dropper or re-routed runner needing softer company. He can be used underneath if tote action suggests improvement.

Senor Poncho (8)
Senor Poncho (8), ridden by Reylu Gutierrez for Gregory Charlerie, may come from off the pace. His outside draw could help him loop tiring horses for a minor share.

Longshots

Daw Samaa (3)
Daw Samaa (3), trained by Ilkay Kantarmaci with Gokhan Kocakaya, might be overlooked in the betting. Without stronger prior form, he is a longshot, but given the barn's ability to move horses up on drops and surface switches, he is not impossible. Still, his main utility is in deep exotics.

Selections

Win Shellac (4)
Place Plex (1)
Show Lough Currane (7)

Suggested wagers: Win on Shellac (4). Exactas 4 with 1,5,7 and 1 with 4,7 as a saver. Trifectas 4 with 1,5,7 with 1,2,5,6,7,8.

Jockey Notes and Insights

The riding colony on this Aqueduct card features several top local and national riders whose tendencies should influence your wagering.

Manuel Franco has multiple live mounts, including Manhattan Chrome (5) in Race 1, Soloshot (1) in Race 2, Moment's Notice (4) in Race 4, So Spirited (5) in Race 5, Tammy's Cruiser (4) in Race 6, Caddiemaster (4) in Race 7, and Plex (1) in Race 8. Franco is particularly adept at one-turn trips on this surface, often saving ground and timing moves well, making his mounts logical A-level or key horses in vertical and horizontal wagers.​

Jose Lezcano, aboard Mo Spice (6) in Race 1, Munnings Express (2) in Race 2, So Spirited (5) in Race 5, and Middle Market (7) in Race 4, is a strong fit for tactical, pressing rides in sprints. His presence often signals a live runner for barns like Linda Rice and Brad Cox, and his pace judgment makes him a valuable asset in potential pace-controlled races.​

Ricardo Santana Jr. rides Miami Kaz (2) in Race 1, Commuted (4) in Race 3, Three Little Birds (1) in Race 4, Eleni (6) in Race 6, Solo Dancing (5) in Race 7, and possibly others depending on scratches. Santana tends to be aggressive early, which can create pace and offer value to closers if overdone; but when on well-meant speed horses, his mounts can take advantage of a surface that slightly favors tactical speed.​

Flavien Prat, aboard Mr. Papagiorgio (2) in Race 3 and Shellac (4) in Race 8, brings high-caliber decision-making and strong finishing ability. His limited but pointed bookings usually indicate prime win candidates, making those mounts serious must-use horses in all pools.​

Reylu Gutierrez, Kendrick Carmouche, Jorge Vargas Jr., Jaime Rodriguez, and Eric Cancel round out a capable group, each with specific strengths: Carmouche's gate aggression and front-running savvy, Gutierrez's persistence through the lane, Vargas's effectiveness on speed or stalkers, Rodriguez's ability to adapt mid-race, and Cancel's solid handling of midpack types are all relevant nuances when assessing each race.​

Trainer Notes and Insights

Several barns have multiple entries or high-impact runners on this card.

Linda Rice has a strong presence with Mercilesanihilator (3) and Mo Spice (6) in Race 1, Munnings Express (2) and Mommasgottagun (5) in Race 2, Commuted (4) in Race 3, Thirteen G's (5) in Race 4, So Spirited (5) in Race 5, and Caddiemaster (4) in Race 7. Rice is highly effective with New York-breds and in claiming and allowance sprints; her horses often improve on class drops and when paired with riders like Lezcano, Franco, Carmouche, or Santana. On a card like this, her runners should be treated as must-use in multi-race tickets.​

Ilkay Kantarmaci also has a notable footprint with Escape Hall (1) in Race 1, Soloshot (1) and Tammy's Cruiser (4) in other races, Itwillbefun (5) in Race 6, and Daw Samaa (3) in Race 8. Kantarmaci excels at placing horses in realistic spots and can be particularly effective with claimers and low-level maiden claimers, making his runners dangerous, especially at prices.​

Brad Cox sends Manhattan Chrome (5) in Race 1 and Take Me To Londyn (2) in Race 6, both likely to be among the better horses in their respective fields. Cox's entries at Aqueduct are generally very live, and drops in class from his barn tend to be serious win attempts rather than mere experiments.​

Other barns like Christophe Clement (Moment's Notice (4)), Mark Hennig (Monte Avi (3), E Z Bourbon (1)), John Terranova (Red Miller (3), Killybegs Kid (6), Lough Currane (7)), and William Morey (Shellac (4)) are capable of firing with well-placed horses, particularly when paired with strong riders.

Best Wagering Strategies and Value Plays

Given the structure of today's card, with several small fields and a couple of lower-level maiden claimers, exotics and horizontal plays should be approached selectively, focusing on races where you have a strong opinion and where field sizes support value.​

Potential key single or primary A horses in multi-race wagers like early or late Pick 4/5 sequences include Manhattan Chrome (5) in Race 1, Munnings Express (2) in Race 2, Mr. Papagiorgio (2) or Commuted (4) in Race 3, Thirteen G's (5) in Race 4, So Spirited (5) in Race 5, Take Me To Londyn (2) in Race 6, Caddiemaster (4) in Race 7, and Shellac (4) in Race 8. You likely cannot single all of them; instead, select one or two stronger opinions—such as So Spirited (5) and Shellac (4)—as potential singles, and spread a bit more in races with higher uncertainty like Race 6 or Race 7.​

Value plays may emerge in the form of second-tier horses likely to be overlooked due to strong favorites: Miami Kaz (2) in Race 1 as a stalking alternative to the Rice and Cox runners, Soloshot (1) in Race 2 if the pace becomes contested, Chelonian (5) in Race 3 as a grinder who can capitalize on any pace pressure, Moment's Notice (4) in Race 4 if the leaders duel, and Lough Currane (7) in Race 8 as a late runner with outside flow.​

Exotic structure suggestions:

Use win bets selectively when you believe the favorite is vulnerable or when you see a fair price on a top choice. For example, a straight win bet on Thirteen G's (5) in Race 4 or on Take Me To Londyn (2) in Race 6 could be efficient if odds are acceptable. In exactas and trifectas, key your most confident horse on top while spreading underneath with logical stalkers and longshots who can clunk up late.

Horizontal strategies such as a late Pick 4 (Races 5–8) might look like:

Race 5: So Spirited (5), Killybegs Kid (6), Monte Avi (3)
Race 6: Take Me To Londyn (2), Tammy's Cruiser (4), Eleni (6), Itwillbefun (5)
Race 7: Caddiemaster (4), E Z Bourbon (1), Solo Dancing (5), plus Ez Roll (3) as a backup
Race 8: Shellac (4) as a primary, with Plex (1) and Lough Currane (7) as backups

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