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Del Mar Thoroughbred Club concludes its 2025 summer meet today with an exceptional 11-race card highlighted by the Grade 1 Del Mar Futurity. This closing day program features a compelling mix of stakes action, competitive allowance events, and maiden contests that showcase both established stars and promising newcomers. The day’s centerpiece is the $300,000 Del Mar Futurity in Race 4, drawing a field of six talented two-year-olds, with four trained by Bob Baffert creating considerable intrigue around the wagering dynamics.
Post time for the first race is 1:30 PM Pacific, with the featured Futurity scheduled for 3:06 PM. The card also includes the Grade 3 Del Mar Juvenile Turf Stakes in Race 9, offering another significant stakes opportunity for two-year-olds. With purses ranging from $26,000 to $300,000, today’s program provides substantial opportunities for horsemen and bettors alike as the summer season reaches its conclusion.
Weather Forecast and Track Conditions
Today’s weather conditions at Del Mar are favorable for racing, with partly cloudy skies and patchy morning fog expected to give way to mostly sunny conditions. Temperatures will reach a comfortable 76°F with light northwest winds up to 10 mph. The evening low will drop to 67°F with partly cloudy skies and patchy fog returning overnight.
Current track conditions are listed as fast for the dirt surface and firm for the turf course. The mild coastal weather and stable atmospheric conditions should maintain these optimal racing surfaces throughout the day. The lack of precipitation in the forecast ensures consistent footing for both dirt and turf events, allowing horses to perform at their peak capabilities.
Race-by-Race Analysis
Race 1 – $26,000 Claiming (6 Furlongs, Dirt)
This claiming event for fillies and mares that have never won two races presents an interesting betting proposition. Eltonsingsanother appears to be the speed of the field, dropping significantly in class from $25,000 claiming to $10,000 claiming conditions. Her early pace advantage could prove decisive if she can maintain her position through the stretch.
Blue Fashion brings route-to-sprint angle working in her favor, making her second start back from a layoff and first start off the claim. While she may be outrun early, the front-runners’ reliability questions make her a legitimate upset candidate. Petite Ange has finished second in both attempts at this level and possesses enough tactical speed to track the pacesetter.
The pace scenario favors the speed, but the class drop for the morning line favorite creates value opportunities elsewhere in the field. Consider exacta combinations using the top three choices in various configurations.
Race 2 – $100,000 Maiden Special Weight (5½ Furlongs, Dirt)
This California-bred maiden sprint for two-year-olds features Arisaka as the top selection based on his improved debut performance. Despite showing little early speed in his first start, he finished strongly and galloped out in front, suggesting more ability than the result indicated. Trainer Peter Eurton’s strong record with second-start maidens adds confidence to this selection.
Tommy Norris brings blazing early speed and should benefit from having more time to settle at Del Mar since his comeback effort. Ocean Bear ran a creditable second in his debut and merits respect, while Tamarando Beach enters as an intriguing first-time starter with solid morning work patterns.
The pace setup appears moderate, which should benefit closers and horses with tactical speed. Focus on the top three morning line choices for win betting, with longer shots offering exotic value.
Race 3 – $81,000 Allowance Optional Claiming (1⅜ Miles, Turf)
Dicey Mo Chara enters this turf marathon as the class of the field, dropping from tougher competition where he recently missed by less than a length in similar conditions. His Grade 2 San Gabriel victory, though distant, demonstrates his ability at the highest level.
Rastaman Vibe brings winning form at this distance and condition from opening weekend, making him a logical contender. Baldoro has shown consistent improvement since being claimed, posting three seconds and a win in his last four starts. Night Out finished second as the favorite in both recent starts against slightly lesser opposition.
The marathon distance and large field create opportunities for pace-dependent scenarios. Consider using multiple horses in exotic wagers to account for the distance and class variables.
Race 4 – Del Mar Futurity Grade 1 ($300,000, 7 Furlongs, Dirt)
The $300,000 Del Mar Futurity represents the marquee event of closing day at Del Mar, featuring six carefully selected two-year-olds competing at seven furlongs on the dirt. This Grade 1 contest serves as a major stepping stone toward the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile, with the winner receiving a $30,000 credit toward entry fees. The race has drawn significant attention due to Bob Baffert’s dominance with four of the six entrants, creating unique wagering dynamics and strategic considerations.
Post time is scheduled for 3:06 PM Pacific, with the absence of traditional place and show wagering concentrating betting interest on win pools and exotic combinations. The field quality reflects the cream of the two-year-old crop, with several representing substantial investments and top breeding programs.
Key Contenders Analysis
Brant (Post 2)
The overwhelming 1-1 morning line favorite enters off a spectacular debut performance that established him as the clear class of this field. The Gun Runner colt recorded a blazing 1:02.63 victory while earning a remarkable 101 Beyer Speed Figure, demonstrating both raw speed and professional finishing ability. His $3 million purchase price at the Keeneland September sale reflects the high expectations surrounding this regally bred prospect.
Trainer Bob Baffert’s record with two-year-old stakes winners provides additional confidence, while jockey Flavien Prat brings proven big-race experience to the partnership. The combination of natural ability, professional connections, and impressive debut form makes Brant the logical centerpiece of most wagering strategies. His tactical speed should allow him to secure favorable position while maintaining enough closing punch to resist challengers in the stretch.
Desert Gate (Post 5)
The most accomplished member of the Baffert quartet brings proven stakes experience and versatility to this challenge. This Omaha Beach colt has demonstrated the ability to compete effectively at the highest level, showing both tactical speed and finishing ability in his racing career. His 4-1 morning line odds suggest respect from handicappers while offering potential value compared to the overwhelming favorite.
Jockey Juan Hernandez provides experienced hands for what promises to be a tactical battle among the Baffert-trained runners. Desert Gate’s proven ability to handle pressure and deliver his best efforts in stakes company makes him a serious threat to upset the favorite while offering better wagering value for those seeking alternatives to the short-priced choice.
Civil Liberty (Post 4)
The lone Doug O’Neill-trained representative offers the most intriguing value proposition in this competitive field. This Independence Hall colt brings solid credentials and the tactical speed necessary to remain competitive throughout the race. His 9/2 morning line odds reflect both respect for his ability and recognition of the challenge posed by the Baffert quartet.
The connections of trainer Doug O’Neill and jockey Antonio Fresu have proven effective in major stakes competition, providing the professional handling necessary to maximize this colt’s chances. Civil Liberty’s breeding suggests both speed and durability, making him a legitimate threat to spring an upset while offering attractive wagering value for exotic combinations.
Secondary Choices Analysis
Balboa (Post 3)
This Not This Time colt represents another member of the powerful Baffert stable with legitimate claims to victory. His 6-1 morning line odds suggest handicappers view him as a live contender despite racing in the shadow of stablemate Brant. The tactical speed and professional handling that characterize Baffert runners make him dangerous in this spot.
Jockey Kazushi Kimura brings international experience and proven ability in major stakes competition. Balboa’s breeding suggests he should handle the seven-furlong distance effectively while possessing enough tactical speed to remain in contention throughout the race.
Litmus Test (Post 6)
The fourth member of the Baffert contingent rounds out a formidable stable presence in this prestigious event. This Nyquist colt brings solid breeding and professional connections that suggest competitive ability at this level. His 6-1 morning line odds mirror those of stablemate Balboa, indicating similar respect from handicappers.
Veteran jockey Tyler Gaffalione provides experienced handling for what promises to be a tactical battle among multiple stablemates. The challenge of separating the Baffert runners based on limited public information creates opportunities for astute handicappers willing to dig deeper into workout patterns and stable preferences.
Longshot Consideration
Brigante (Post 1)
The longest price on the morning line at 15-1 represents the primary threat from outside the Baffert stable. This More Than Ready colt trained by Doug O’Neill brings different tactical approach and breeding influences that could prove effective if the race develops favorably. His morning line odds suggest limited public confidence but create significant value opportunities for exotic wagering.
The combination of trainer Doug O’Neill and jockey Hector Berrios has proven capable of competitive efforts in major stakes events. Brigante’s breeding suggests both speed and stamina characteristics that could prove valuable if pace dynamics develop in his favor.
Pace Analysis
The pace scenario appears moderate to contested, with multiple runners possessing tactical speed that should create honest early fractions. Brant figures to secure favorable position while maintaining his preferred stalking style, while Desert Gate and Civil Liberty both possess enough early speed to remain within striking distance throughout the early stages.
The seven-furlong distance favors horses with tactical speed and finishing ability rather than pure early speed or dedicated closers. The track configuration at Del Mar typically produces fair racing surfaces that allow various running styles to succeed, provided horses possess sufficient class and ability.
The presence of four Baffert-trained runners creates interesting tactical considerations, as the veteran trainer typically allows his horses to run their own race rather than implementing elaborate strategic plans. This approach should produce honest pace dynamics that favor the most talented individual performers.
Key Angles to Consider
The overwhelming focus on Brant creates potential value opportunities with other members of the field, particularly given the uncertainty inherent in two-year-old racing. While his debut performance was impressive, the step up to Grade 1 company represents a significant challenge that has derailed many promising prospects.
The Baffert stable dominance creates unique wagering dynamics, as traditional handicapping methods become less reliable when multiple horses from the same barn compete at the highest level. Focus on breeding patterns, workout reports, and jockey assignments for subtle indicators of stable confidence and preparation levels.
The absence of place and show wagering concentrates attention on win betting and exotic combinations, creating potential value in exacta and trifecta pools where the overwhelming favorite may be over-bet in certain positions.
Wagering Angles and Picks
Win Betting: While Brant represents the logical choice based on demonstrated ability, his prohibitive odds limit potential returns. Desert Gate offers the best combination of ability and value among realistic contenders.
Exacta Strategies: Focus on combinations using Brant with the other Baffert runners, while including Civil Liberty and Brigante as potential upset winners over the favorite. The key is determining which Baffert runner offers the best value in second position.
Trifecta Approaches: Spread tickets using multiple Baffert horses with Civil Liberty and Brigante filling out trifecta combinations. The depth of the Baffert contingent suggests at least two should finish in the top three positions.
Superfecta Considerations: With only six runners, superfecta wagering becomes more manageable while offering potentially significant returns if an upset occurs in any position.
Suggested Selections
Top Choice: Desert Gate – offers the best combination of proven stakes ability and wagering value among realistic contenders.
Win Backup: Civil Liberty – represents the primary threat from outside the Baffert stable with attractive odds.
Exotic Key: Use Desert Gate and Civil Liberty with Brant, Balboa, and Litmus Test in various exotic combinations to maximize coverage while controlling costs.
Longshot Consideration: Brigante at 15-1 offers significant value for small win wagers and as a potential exotic key if pace dynamics develop favorably.
Race 5 – $80,000 Maiden Special Weight (5 Furlongs, Turf)
This California-bred turf sprint for two-year-olds presents several intriguing contenders. Violets Song brings strong breeding and trainer connections, while Ventry Strand and Mo Holland Drive offer different tactical approaches to the distance.
The turf surface and sprint distance create unpredictable scenarios for first-time starters and lightly raced horses. Consider spreading tickets across multiple contenders rather than focusing on a single selection.
Race 6 – $100,000 Maiden Special Weight (5½ Furlongs, Dirt)
Boyd and Cherokee Nation represent the Baffert stable in this competitive maiden sprint. Both colts bring strong breeding and professional connections that suggest significant ability.
Rhodes adds another dimension to the Baffert trio, while Sharons Maxfield brings different stable representation with Flavien Prat aboard. The presence of multiple first-time starters creates uncertainty that favors spreading exotic wagers.
Race 7 – $81,000 Allowance Optional Claiming (5 Furlongs, Turf)
Golden Ale emerges as a logical contender in this competitive turf sprint, bringing solid form and connections. Uncle Dude offers different tactical speed, while Regal Patriot adds another dimension to the pace scenario.
The short turf distance and competitive nature of the field create opportunities for multiple outcomes. Consider various exotic combinations rather than focusing on single selections.
Race 8 – $100,000 Maiden Special Weight (6½ Furlongs, Dirt)
The $100,000 Maiden Special Weight represents an intriguing betting race for three-year-olds and up competing at 6½ furlongs on the dirt surface. This contest offers preference to horses that have not started for claiming prices of $40,000 or less in their last three starts, creating a field of competitive maidens with solid breeding and connections. Post time is scheduled for 5:11 PM Pacific, with the race serving as a key component of the late Pick 4 and Pick 5 sequences.
The purse distribution awards $63,000 to the winner, $20,000 to second, $10,000 to third, and $7,000 to fourth, making this an attractive spot for connections seeking both prize money and maiden-breaking credentials. The 6½-furlong distance on Del Mar’s main track typically favors horses with tactical speed and finishing ability rather than pure early pace or dedicated closers.
Key Contenders Analysis
Cheever (Post 10)
The 3-1 morning line favorite brings the strongest credentials based on breeding and connections. This Into Mischief colt represents trainer Mark Glatt with Antonio Fresu aboard, combining proven bloodlines with professional handling. Into Mischief has established himself as one of North America’s premier sires, with his offspring showing particular effectiveness in maiden special weight company. The breeding pattern suggests both tactical speed and finishing ability that should prove effective at this distance.
Previous form analysis shows Cheever finished fifth in a competitive Del Mar maiden over one mile, suggesting the cutback to 6½ furlongs may benefit his tactical approach. The connections’ decision to return to Del Mar after that effort indicates confidence in his ability to handle the track surface and configuration. Fresu’s tactical abilities and experience with maiden horses add further appeal to this logical favorite.
Latitude (Post 3)
The second choice at 4-1 morning line odds represents the powerful combination of trainer John Sadler and jockey Mike Smith. This Candy Ride colt possesses exceptional breeding for the distance, with Candy Ride offspring showing consistent success in maiden company at intermediate distances. The sire’s influence typically produces horses with tactical versatility and strong finishing ability, well-suited to Del Mar’s configuration.
The Sadler-Smith partnership brings Hall of Fame-level expertise to this maiden contest, with both connections showing particular strength in developing three-year-olds. Smith’s tactical abilities and big-race experience provide significant advantages in competitive maiden fields where positioning and timing prove crucial. The morning line odds suggest respect from handicappers while offering reasonable value compared to the favorite.
Modus Bestia (Post 5)
This Maclean’s Music colt at 6-1 morning line odds represents another strong contender with Flavien Prat aboard for trainer Richard Baltas. Previous form shows him finishing third at Del Mar over 6 furlongs, demonstrating both track familiarity and competitive ability at similar distances. The breeding pattern combines speed and class influences that should translate well to the 6½-furlong journey.
Prat’s decision to ride this colt adds significant appeal, as the leading jockey has numerous options throughout the card. The Baltas stable has shown consistent success in maiden company, particularly with horses making their second or third career starts. The slight stretch out in distance from his previous Del Mar effort could benefit his tactical approach and finishing ability.
Secondary Choices Analysis
Twelfth Night (Post 4)
This Quality Road gelding brings solid credentials at 6-1 morning line odds with Giovanni Franco riding for trainer Joe Mullins. Quality Road has established consistent success as a sire of middle-distance runners, with his offspring showing particular effectiveness in maiden special weight competition. The breeding suggests both tactical speed and stamina that could prove valuable in this competitive field.
Franco’s mount choice indicates stable confidence, while Mullins has shown steady improvement in his conditioning program. The gelding operation often provides focus for Quality Road offspring, making this runner a legitimate threat for minor awards or potential upset consideration.
Running With Chaos (Post 2)
The Khozan gelding represents trainer Robert Hess Jr. with Edwin Maldonado aboard at 8-1 morning line odds. While lacking the breeding prestige of some competitors, his connections have shown success in developing maiden horses through patient conditioning programs. The morning line odds create value opportunities for handicappers willing to look beyond obvious choices.
Kokosan (Post 6)
Another entry from the Sadler stable brings tactical speed with Hector Berrios riding at 8-1 odds. This Unified colt finished third in a Santa Anita maiden over one mile, showing competitive ability while suggesting the distance cutback could prove beneficial. The dual Sadler entry creates strategic considerations, though Latitude appears to represent the stable’s primary option based on jockey assignments and breeding.
Longshot Considerations
Singlemore (Post 8)
This Distorted Humor gelding trained by Tim Yakteen offers value at 8-1 morning line odds. Distorted Humor offspring have shown effectiveness in maiden company, particularly when stretching out to intermediate distances. Yakteen’s patient approach with developing horses and the gelding’s recent form progression create potential for improvement.
Beneficial (Post 9)
The second Yakteen entry brings Malibu Moon breeding with Kazushi Kimura aboard at 15-1 odds. Previous form shows him finishing second at Del Mar over 6 furlongs, indicating both competitive ability and track familiarity. The slight stretch out in distance could benefit his tactical approach while the generous odds create value opportunities.
At the Post (Post 1)
The longest price at 15-1 represents significant value potential for exotic wagering. This Oxbow colt brings different breeding influences with Abel Lezcano riding for Doug O’Neill, creating potential for improvement in his second or third career start.
Pace Analysis
The pace scenario appears moderate to honest, with several runners possessing tactical speed that should create reasonable early fractions. Latitude and Modus Bestia both bring enough early speed to secure favorable position, while Cheever’s tactical versatility allows him multiple trip options depending on how the race develops.
The 6½-furlong distance at Del Mar typically favors horses with tactical speed and finishing ability rather than pure early pace. The track configuration creates opportunities for various running styles to succeed, provided horses possess sufficient class and tactical positioning throughout the race.
Kokosan and Running With Chaos may provide additional early pace, creating honest fractions that should set up well for horses with finishing ability. The key will be avoiding traffic issues in what promises to be a competitive and tightly bunched field throughout the early stages.
Key Angles to Consider
The maiden special weight conditions create opportunities for significant improvement from horses making their second or third career starts. Several runners in this field bring limited experience that could mask developing ability, particularly given the quality breeding represented throughout the field.
The preference for non-starters at low claiming levels ensures field quality while creating value opportunities with horses whose connections have avoided cheaper spots. This restriction typically produces competitive maiden events where breeding and connections prove more reliable than limited form analysis.
The Del Mar track configuration often produces different results than other Southern California venues, with horses showing track-specific preferences that can create form reversals. Focus on horses with previous Del Mar experience or breeding patterns that suggest surface compatibility.
Wagering Angles and Picks
Win Betting: Cheever represents the logical choice based on breeding, connections, and form progression, though his odds limit profit potential. Latitude offers excellent value with Hall of Fame connections and proven breeding for the distance.
Exacta Strategies: Focus on combinations using Cheever and Latitude with Modus Bestia and Twelfth Night. Consider reverse exactas to account for potential upsets, particularly involving the Sadler-trained runners.
Trifecta Approaches: Spread tickets using the top four choices with secondary runners like Running With Chaos, Kokosan, and Singlemore filling out combinations. The competitive nature of the field suggests multiple horses could finish in the money.
Superfecta Considerations: The ten-horse field creates manageable superfecta opportunities while offering significant returns if longshots fill out the bottom positions. Include Beneficial and At the Post as potential value plays in fourth position.
Suggested Selections
Top Choice: Latitude – combines Hall of Fame connections with proven breeding and tactical versatility, offering excellent value at 4-1 odds.
Win Backup: Cheever – brings the strongest form credentials and proven connections, though his favoritism limits wagering value.
Exotic Key: Use Latitude and Cheever with Modus Bestia, Twelfth Night, and Running With Chaos in various exotic combinations to maximize coverage while controlling costs.
Longshot Consideration: Beneficial at 15-1 offers significant value based on previous Del Mar form and the potential benefit of distance stretching, making him attractive for small win wagers and exotic combinations.
The competitive nature of this maiden special weight creates excellent opportunities for handicappers willing to look beyond the obvious favorite while respecting the class advantage represented by the top breeding and connections in the field.
Race 9 – Del Mar Juvenile Turf Stakes Grade 3 ($100,000, 1 Mile, Turf)
The $100,000 Del Mar Juvenile Turf Stakes represents the second major two-year-old stakes on closing day, featuring 14 talented juveniles competing at one mile on the turf course. This Grade 3 event serves as a key stepping stone toward the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf, offering valuable graded stakes experience for horses targeting fall championship events. The race has drawn significant attention due to the presence of undefeated Hey Nay Nay, who attempts two turns for the first time after dominating sprint company.
Post time is scheduled for 5:41 PM Pacific, with the field representing a compelling mix of lightly raced prospects and horses with proven turf form. The purse distribution awards $60,000 to the winner, $20,000 to second, $12,000 to third, $6,000 to fourth, and $2,000 to fifth, making this an attractive spot for connections seeking both prize money and black type credentials.
Key Contenders Analysis
Hey Nay Nay (Post 5)
The 4-1 morning line favorite enters with a perfect two-for-two record, including a spectacular seven-length victory in the Tyro Stakes at Monmouth Park. This No Nay Never colt represents the most accomplished member of the field, having demonstrated both tactical speed and impressive finishing ability in his brief career. His breeding suggests distance versatility, with sire No Nay Never known for producing horses capable of handling route distances effectively.
Trainer John Sadler has expressed confidence in the colt’s ability to handle the step up to two turns, noting his tactical speed and professional demeanor. Jockey Hector Berrios returns to the mount after riding him in his debut victory, bringing continuity to the partnership. The connections’ decision to keep him at Del Mar rather than ship to Kentucky Downs for a significantly larger purse demonstrates their confidence in his home track advantage and preparation for the Breeders’ Cup at the same venue.
Dirty Rich (Post 2)
This Thousand Words colt brings solid credentials as the second choice at 5-1 morning line odds. His early speed and tactical versatility make him a legitimate threat to the favorite, particularly if pace dynamics develop favorably. Trainer Peter Miller’s strong record with turf runners adds confidence to this selection, while jockey Ruben Silvera provides experienced handling for what promises to be a tactical battle.
The combination of breeding and connections suggests this colt possesses the class necessary to compete at the graded stakes level. His morning line position reflects respect from handicappers who recognize his potential to capitalize on any pace scenario that develops.
Caro Buono (Post 13)
The French-bred colt at 6-1 morning line odds represents international breeding influences that often prove effective on American turf courses. Trainer Leonard Powell’s European connections and experience with international runners provide additional confidence in this selection. Flavien Prat’s decision to ride this colt over several other options in the race suggests stable confidence in his chances.
The outside post position creates both challenges and opportunities, requiring tactical speed to secure favorable position while potentially offering a clear running lane in the stretch. The breeding pattern suggests both speed and stamina characteristics that could prove valuable in this competitive field.
Secondary Choices Analysis
Proletariat (Post 3)
This Raging Bull colt brings solid form progression and tactical speed that should keep him competitive throughout the race. His 8-1 morning line odds suggest value potential for exotic wagering, while his breeding indicates the stamina necessary to handle the mile distance effectively. Trainer Joe Mullins has shown steady improvement with this runner, making him a legitimate threat for minor awards.
Later Than Planned (Post 7)
The Irish-bred runner offers different tactical dimensions with his European breeding and style. His 8-1 morning line odds create value opportunities for handicappers willing to look beyond the obvious choices. Trainer Phil D’Amato’s success with turf runners, particularly those with international breeding, adds confidence to this selection as a potential upset candidate.
Plutarch (Post 4)
The lone Bob Baffert representative brings exceptional breeding as a son of Into Mischief out of champion Stellar Wind. Despite his 8-1 morning line odds, the combination of elite breeding and Baffert’s expertise with young horses makes him dangerous in this spot. Juan Hernandez provides experienced handling for what could be a breakthrough performance.
Longshot Considerations
Won for Lou (Post 12)
This Bucchero colt at 15-1 morning line odds represents significant value potential based on his recent form progression. Expert handicapper Brian Spencer identified him as having appeal off his graduation run, noting his ability to handle route racing and potentially track the early pace effectively. Tyler Gaffalione’s mount choice suggests stable confidence despite the generous odds.
Conducted (Post 8)
This Mendelssohn colt brings Hall of Fame connections with trainer Mike Smith aboard, creating potential for improvement in his second career start. His 12-1 morning line odds offer value for exotic combinations, while his breeding suggests the class necessary to compete at this level.
Pace Analysis
The pace scenario appears moderate to honest, with Hey Nay Nay expected to use his tactical speed to secure favorable position while maintaining enough stamina for the stretch drive. Dirty Rich possesses early speed that could press the favorite, while several runners bring enough pace to ensure honest early fractions without creating a suicidal tempo.
The mile distance on turf typically favors horses with tactical speed and finishing ability rather than pure speed or dedicated closers. Del Mar’s turf course configuration allows various running styles to succeed, provided horses possess sufficient class and ability to handle the graded stakes competition.
The presence of 14 runners creates potential traffic issues that could benefit horses with favorable trips while penalizing those encountering trouble. The outside post positions may prove advantageous if the early pace develops hot, allowing late runners to secure clear passage in the stretch.
Key Angles to Consider
Hey Nay Nay’s undefeated record and dominant victory margin in the Tyro Stakes create significant expectations that may inflate his odds beyond true value. However, the step up to two turns represents a significant test that has derailed many promising sprint specialists throughout racing history.
The international breeding influences represented by several runners, particularly Caro Buono and Later Than Planned, often prove effective on American turf courses where European bloodlines can demonstrate their stamina and tactical versatility.
The Breeders’ Cup implications add significance to this race, as connections view graded stakes success as crucial for championship event consideration. This motivation could produce improved efforts from horses whose connections target fall objectives.
Wagering Angles and Picks
Win Betting: Hey Nay Nay represents the logical choice based on demonstrated class and connections, but his odds may limit profit potential. Caro Buono offers the best combination of ability and value among realistic contenders.
Exacta Strategies: Focus on combinations using Hey Nay Nay with Dirty Rich, Caro Buono, and the secondary choices. Consider reverse exactas to account for potential upsets of the favorite.
Trifecta Approaches: Spread tickets using the top four choices with Won for Lou and other longshots filling out trifecta combinations. The large field and competitive nature suggest multiple horses could finish in the money.
Superfecta Considerations: The 14-horse field creates manageable superfecta opportunities while offering potentially significant returns if longshots fill out the bottom positions.
Suggested Selections
Top Choice: Hey Nay Nay – brings proven class and connections despite the distance question, with tactical speed to secure favorable position throughout the race.
Win Backup: Caro Buono – offers excellent value with international breeding, strong connections, and favorable jockey choice suggesting stable confidence.
Exotic Key: Use Hey Nay Nay and Caro Buono with Dirty Rich, Proletariat, Later Than Planned, and Plutarch in various exotic combinations.
Longshot Consideration: Won for Lou at 15-1 offers significant value based on recent form progression and expert handicapper endorsement for small win wagers and exotic combinations.
The Del Mar Juvenile Turf Stakes promises competitive racing with legitimate chances for multiple outcomes, making it an attractive betting race for handicappers willing to look beyond the obvious favorite while respecting the class advantage he brings to this graded stakes competition.
Race 10 – $81,000 Allowance Optional Claiming (6½ Furlongs, Dirt)
Christel Clean appears well-positioned after her authoritative debut victory, drawing away by more than three lengths in impressive fashion. Danzingwith Maxine brings different tactical approach, while the field depth creates exotic opportunities.
Race 11 – $81,000 Allowance Optional Claiming (1 Mile, Turf)
Cuban Confusion and Broski bring European breeding and experience to this turf mile, while Friendly Confines offers domestic form and connections. The distance and surface create opportunities for various running styles.
Jockey and trainer Insights
Flavien Prat continues his exceptional season with mounts throughout the card, bringing his tactical expertise to key races. His partnership with various trainers has produced consistent results at the meet.
Abel Lezcano provides veteran presence on several competitive mounts, while Juan Hernandez brings strong connections with Peter Miller and other leading conditioners.
Tyler Gaffalione adds another accomplished rider to the jockey colony, with his experience in major stakes races proving valuable in today’s competitive events.
Trainer Notes and Insights
Bob Baffert dominates the featured Futurity with four of six entrants, creating unique wagering challenges and opportunities. His recent form with two-year-olds remains exceptional, though the concentration of horses in one race requires careful analysis.
Peter Miller continues his strong meet with multiple contenders across various races and surfaces. His versatility with different horse types makes his entrants worthy of consideration.
Doug O’Neill brings significant experience to multiple races, including the featured stakes events where his tactical approach often produces competitive results.
Wagering Strategies and Value Plays
The Del Mar Futurity’s lack of place and show wagering concentrates attention on win betting and exotic wagers. Consider exacta boxes using the Baffert horses with Brigante as the main outside threat.
For the Juvenile Turf Stakes, Hey Nay Nay’s class suggests win betting value, while exotic wagers can incorporate the pace-dependent scenarios likely to develop.
Throughout the card, the presence of first-time starters and lightly raced horses creates opportunities for upset results. Spreading tickets across multiple contenders in exotic wagers provides better coverage than focusing on short-priced favorites.
The closing day atmosphere often produces emotional betting on favorites, creating value opportunities with overlooked contenders at generous odds.
