Get more in-depth analysis, expert picks, handicapper reports, AI picks, handicapping tools, in-article data tooltips, NO ADVERTISEMENTS, and other membership perks with a Pick Pony subscription!
Don’t forget Pick Pony’s Expert Picks, AI Picks, and Past Performance Sheets/Racing Forms!
The Pick Pony Handicapper’s Report is published daily and provides analysis of all races on the card. A Pick Pony analyst prepares the report, so selections may differ from the Pick Pony Expert Picks, which are based on the consensus of all Pick Pony analysts.
Los Alamitos Race Course presents a competitive nine-race thoroughbred card on Saturday, December 6, 2025, highlighted by the Grade 2 Starlet Stakes in the eighth race. The card features a mix of claiming races, maiden events, and the prestigious $200,000 Starlet Stakes for two-year-old fillies. First post time is 12:30 PM PST, with racing conducted entirely on the main dirt track.
Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert dominates headlines as he seeks an unprecedented ninth consecutive Starlet Stakes victory with three entries: morning line favorite Nimah at 6-5, Himika at 5-2, and Consequent at 3-1. The Starlet serves as a Kentucky Oaks prep race and represents the most significant event on the card with national implications for the three-year-old filly division.
Beyond the feature race, the card includes competitive claiming and maiden special weight events showcasing California-bred horses and juveniles making their racing debuts. The opening race features a claiming race for older horses at $6,250, while several maiden events provide opportunities for first-time winners. The card concludes with a competitive allowance optional claiming race restricted to California-bred or California-sired runners.
Weather and Track Conditions
The forecast for Los Alamitos on December 6, 2025 calls for sunny to mostly sunny conditions with temperatures ranging from a high of 71 degrees to a low of 47 degrees. Light winds are expected throughout the day, creating ideal racing conditions. The track surface is listed as fast on all dirt races, which should provide consistent footing and favor horses with tactical speed.
The Southern California weather pattern has been stable throughout the fall and early winter meet, with no precipitation expected. These favorable conditions should produce fast times, particularly in the sprint races that dominate the card. The lack of wind will be beneficial for the longer races, including the 1 1/16-mile Starlet Stakes, where younger horses making their first attempts at two turns will appreciate consistent conditions.
Track maintenance at Los Alamitos has produced a fast, consistent racing surface throughout the current meet. The dirt track tends to play fair with minimal bias, though speed horses have shown slight advantages in sprint races under 6 furlongs.
Race 1 – Claiming $6,250
Post Time: 12:30 PM PST
Distance: 5 1/2 Furlongs, Dirt – Purse: $13,000
Pace Analysis
This claiming sprint should develop into a contentious speed duel between multiple horses with early tactical speed. Invincible figures to be prominent from the break, with Rhino and Unbreakable Trust likely pressing or tracking closely. The pace scenario favors horses with tactical speed who can secure favorable position while conserving energy for the stretch run. The relatively short distance at 5 1/2 furlongs leaves little margin for error, making the break and early positioning critical factors.
Key Contenders
Invincible draws strong support as the morning line favorite at 4-5 odds. The four-year-old gelding trained by Ryan Hanson has Tyler Baze aboard, a combination that has shown success at the current meet. Invincible’s tactical speed should allow him to secure ideal position just off the early pace, and the class relief moving down to the $6,250 level provides an advantage over rivals who have campaigned at this claiming price throughout their careers.
Rhino merits serious consideration at 4-1 morning line odds. Trained by Rafael DeLeon with Welfin Orantes riding, this five-year-old gelding possesses the early speed to factor prominently. The veteran campaigner has experience at this distance and claiming level, making him a logical contender if the pace develops favorably. His ability to rate off the speed or press the pace provides tactical versatility.
Unbreakable Trust represents trainer D. Wayne Baker with Serafin Carmona in the irons. Listed at 9-2 on the morning line, this three-year-old gelding brings youth to a field of older rivals. The weight concession of carrying 122 pounds compared to 125 for older horses provides a tangible advantage. If capable of handling the class, the lighter impost combined with potential improvement could make him dangerous.
Secondary Choices
Infamous Angel offers value at 6-1 morning line odds. Trained by Jesus Uranga with Fernando Olague aboard, this three-year-old gelding draws the apprentice weight allowance, further reducing his impost to just 115 pounds. That seven-pound advantage over the older horses represents a significant edge in a sprint where every pound matters. The outside post position provides options for tactical positioning.
Blue Silver rounds out the logical contenders at 8-1. The six-year-old horse trained by Gloria Haley carries Alfredo Bautista, who receives a weight allowance. Drawing the rail-skimming seven post in a seven-horse field provides a clean trip scenario with options to save ground or angle out for running room.
Selections
Win: Invincible
Place: Rhino
Show: Unbreakable Trust
Invincible receives the top call based on class relief, jockey upgrade to Tyler Baze, and tactical versatility. Rhino provides solid place value with early speed and experience at this level. Unbreakable Trust offers exacta and trifecta value as a lightly-raced three-year-old eligible for improvement.
Race 2 – Claiming $8,000 Fillies and Mares
Post Time: 1:02 PM PST
Distance: 5 1/2 Furlongs, Dirt – Purse: $16,000
Pace Analysis
This fillies and mares claiming sprint should feature competitive early fractions with multiple horses showing forward tactical speed. Rousing Jewel figures as the likely pacesetter, with Sensational Z Z and Rythem Girl tracking closely. The pace should be honest but sustainable at this claiming level, potentially setting up closers or horses with late tactical ability. The compact six-horse field should produce a clean pace scenario with minimal traffic issues.
Key Contenders
Rousing Jewel draws favoritism at 7-5 morning line. The five-year-old mare trained by Steve Knapp pairs with Tiago Pereira, a jockey who has shown strong statistics throughout 2025. Knapp maintains solid win percentages with claiming stock, and this veteran mare has demonstrated consistency at this level. Her tactical speed should secure ideal position stalking or pressing the pace.
Sensational Z Z represents trainer Francisco Rodriguez with Kazushi Kimura riding. Listed at 2-1 on the morning line, this three-year-old filly brings youth and potential improvement to face older rivals. Kimura has been competitive throughout the Los Alamitos meet, providing capable handling. The filly’s recent form suggests she can compete effectively at this claiming price.
Rythem Girl merits consideration at 5-1. Trained by Bill McLean with Armando Ayuso aboard, this three-year-old filly benefits from having the leading rider at Los Alamitos. Ayuso has demonstrated exceptional form throughout the meet, making any horse he pilots dangerous. The filly’s early tactical speed could prove decisive if she can secure favorable position.
Secondary Choices
Chokechery Shari enters for trainer Tim McCanna at 6-1 morning line. The three-year-old filly draws Tyler Baze, whose experience and tactical ability make him dangerous in these competitive claiming events. McCanna’s stable has shown solid form with fillies and mares throughout the meet.
Promise Me Kat represents the longest price at 15-1. Trained by Genaro Vallejo with Alfredo Bautista riding, this three-year-old filly receives an apprentice weight allowance that could prove beneficial. While facing a class test, the reduced impost provides a legitimate edge.
Selections
Win: Rousing Jewel
Place: Sensational Z Z
Show: Rythem Girl
Rousing Jewel gets the nod based on trainer Knapp’s success with claiming fillies and mares, combined with Pereira’s capable handling. Sensational Z Z provides value as a lightly-raced three-year-old eligible for improvement. Rythem Girl merits inclusion with Ayuso aboard.
Race 3 – Maiden Special Weight California-Bred Fillies and Mares
Post Time: 1:33 PM PST
Distance: 5 1/2 Furlongs, Dirt – Purse: $45,000
Pace Analysis
This maiden special weight sprint for California-bred fillies should develop into a speed-favoring race with Tiger of the Sea expected to show tactical brilliance from the break. Honey Bucket and Joyful Mischief likely will track the pace, creating honest but manageable fractions. The $45,000 purse structure reflects the quality expected in these state-bred maiden events, with several horses showing promise in recent workouts or previous race efforts.
Key Contenders
Tiger of the Sea draws strong favoritism at 4-5 morning line. Trained by Brian Koriner with Armando Ayuso riding, this three-year-old filly represents the combination of a capable conditioner with the meet’s leading rider. The filly’s breeding suggests she should handle this distance effectively, and first-time Lasix often produces improvement. Her tactical speed should secure ideal position in a race where early position matters significantly.
Honey Bucket merits serious consideration at 2-1. Trained by Edwin Alvarez with Tiago Pereira aboard, this three-year-old filly makes her career debut but has shown promising morning training. Pereira’s success with first-time starters throughout 2025 enhances this filly’s chances. The breeding suggests she should appreciate this distance, and debut maidens from the Alvarez barn often fire fresh.
Joyful Mischief represents trainer Melanie McDonald at 9-2 morning line. The three-year-old filly draws Leonel Camacho-Flores as rider, providing capable handling. As a lightly-raced maiden, improvement from previous efforts remains possible. The outside post provides options for tactical positioning without forcing early commitment.
Secondary Choices
Despite attracts attention as a stablemate of Tiger of the Sea, both trained by Gloria Haley. Listed at 15-1, this three-year-old filly pairs with Cristobal Herrera and represents value if either Haley runner proves vulnerable. The presence of two Haley trainees suggests strong stable confidence.
Grainne O’Malley rounds out the secondary choices at 8-1. Trained by Genaro Vallejo with Francisco Orduna-Rojas riding, the four-year-old mare brings experience to a field of three-year-old rivals. The additional year of maturity could prove beneficial if she has simply needed time to develop.
Selections
Win: Tiger of the Sea
Place: Honey Bucket
Show: Joyful Mischief
Tiger of the Sea receives the top selection based on the powerful Ayuso-Koriner combination and tactical advantages. Honey Bucket provides value as a first-time starter with Pereira aboard. Joyful Mischief completes the ticket as a potential improver.
Race 4 – Maiden Claiming $12,500
Post Time: 2:03 PM PST
Distance: 6 Furlongs, Dirt – Purse: $15,000
Pace Analysis
This maiden claiming event at six furlongs should produce moderate early fractions with multiple horses showing tactical speed. Boundless Optimist and Money Mitch figure as co-favorites who both possess the ability to secure favorable early position. The pace likely will be contested but not suicidal, potentially favoring horses with tactical versatility who can adjust to the developing scenario.
Key Contenders
Boundless Optimist enters as a logical favorite at 2-1 morning line. The four-year-old colt trained by Jerry Hollendorfer pairs with Kazushi Kimura, a combination showing solid results throughout the meet. Hollendorfer’s expertise with maidens provides confidence, and the trainer’s statistics demonstrate effectiveness when placing horses at appropriate levels. The extra furlong stretching out to six furlongs could unlock improvement.
Money Mitch merits equal consideration at 5-2. The five-year-old gelding trained by Jeff Bonde draws Kyle Frey as rider, providing capable handling. Bonde’s stable has shown competence with claiming-level maidens, and this veteran gelding has accumulated experience that should translate to eventual success. The additional distance to six furlongs appears within his scope.
Unbridleddaviddoro represents trainer Roman Figueroa at 3-1 morning line. The four-year-old gelding pairs with Damian Diaz Cruz and brings the experience of multiple race attempts. The consistency of finishing in the money suggests eventual victory remains possible with the right trip scenario.
Secondary Choices
First to Fly attracts attention at 7-2. Trained by Genaro Vallejo with Alfredo Bautista receiving the apprentice weight allowance, this three-year-old colt brings youth to a field of older maidens. Vallejo has demonstrated competence with developing younger horses, and the weight concession provides a tangible edge.
Scoop of Chocolate rounds out the analysis at 10-1. Trained by Eric Berman with Adrian Escobedo riding, this three-year-old gelding represents value if capable of handling the class. The longest route attempted could suit his running style.
Selections
Win: Boundless Optimist
Place: Money Mitch
Show: First to Fly
Boundless Optimist receives the selection based on Hollendorfer’s expertise with maidens and the effective Kimura partnership. Money Mitch provides solid place value with Bonde’s capable conditioning. First to Fly offers show value with the apprentice allowance.
Race 5 – Maiden Claiming $20,000 California-Bred Two-Year-Olds
Post Time: 2:32 PM PST
Distance: 5 1/2 Furlongs, Dirt – Purse: $20,000
Pace Analysis
This juvenile maiden claiming sprint features a competitive ten-horse field of two-year-olds making early career starts. The pace scenario remains somewhat unpredictable given the inexperience level, though Desert Kat and Kiki Ride figure to show early tactical speed. Multiple horses enter without previous race experience, making workout patterns and breeding backgrounds critical handicapping factors. The shortened sprint distance favors precocious juveniles with natural early speed.
Key Contenders
Desert Kat draws attention at 4-1 morning line. The two-year-old gelding trained by George Papaprodromou pairs with Jeremy Laprida, providing capable handling. The breeding suggests tactical speed suitable for this distance, and the trainer has shown competence developing young horses. His presence in this claiming level indicates realistic placement.
Matts Advisor merits consideration at 7-2. Trained by Tim McCanna with Kyle Frey riding, this two-year-old gelding brings professional connections capable of preparing juvenile maidens effectively. The trainer’s statistics with two-year-olds demonstrate competence, and Frey provides experienced handling. However, this horse appears on the scratch watch due to veterinary concerns, requiring verification of participation.
One Happy Dude represents trainer Steve Knapp at 5-1. The two-year-old colt pairs with Tiago Pereira, continuing the successful partnership that has produced results throughout the meet. Knapp has demonstrated effectiveness with juvenile debut runners, making this colt dangerous despite limited public information.
Secondary Choices
Kiki Ride enters at 6-1. Trained by Craig Anthony Lewis with Armando Ayuso riding, this two-year-old gelding benefits from having the leading rider at the meet. Ayuso’s hot hand makes any mount dangerous, particularly in competitive maiden events where small advantages prove decisive.
La Motta Avenue represents trainer Antonio Garcia at 10-1. The two-year-old colt draws Diego Herrera as rider, providing capable handling. Garcia has shown competence with juveniles throughout the meet, making this colt a potential value play.
Selections
Win: One Happy Dude
Place: Desert Kat
Show: Kiki Ride
One Happy Dude receives the selection based on the effective Knapp-Pereira partnership and trainer statistics with juvenile debut runners. Desert Kat provides place value with favorable breeding. Kiki Ride completes the ticket with Ayuso aboard.
Race 6 – Starter Optional Claiming $50,000 Two-Year-Olds
Post Time: 3:02 PM PST
Distance: 5 1/2 Furlongs, Dirt – Purse: $34,000
Pace Analysis
This starter optional claiming event for two-year-olds should produce competitive fractions with Track Tiger expected to show tactical brilliance from the break. The restricted conditions create a quality field of juveniles who have started for claiming prices or currently enter for the tag. The pace should develop honestly with multiple horses possessing early tactical speed, potentially setting up horses with late tactical ability or closing kicks.
Key Contenders
Track Tiger draws strong favoritism at 8-5 morning line. Trained by Doug O’Neill with Kyle Frey riding, this two-year-old colt represents one of the premier trainers in Southern California. O’Neill has demonstrated exceptional ability developing two-year-olds throughout his Hall of Fame career, winning multiple Kentucky Derbies with horses that showed early talent. The trainer’s statistics with juveniles provide confidence, and Frey supplies capable handling.
Fumano’s Magic merits serious consideration at 3-1. The two-year-old colt trained by Val Brinkerhoff pairs with Diego Herrera, providing experienced handling. The colt has shown competitive efforts in recent starts, suggesting he belongs at this level. The class structure of the race suits his profile as a horse who has competed effectively against similar.
Very Quiet represents the powerful Peter Miller stable at 4-1. Trained by one of the leading conditioners in Southern California, this two-year-old gelding draws Armando Aguilar as rider. Miller has demonstrated remarkable success throughout 2025 with a strong win percentage, making any horse from his barn dangerous. The trainer’s competence with two-year-olds enhances this gelding’s chances significantly.
Secondary Choices
Donde Esta Jefe attracts attention at 10-1. Trained by Doug O’Neill with Edgar Payeras riding, this two-year-old filly represents the second O’Neill entry. The Hall of Fame trainer’s presence with two runners suggests strong stable confidence in the race structure. As a filly facing colts and geldings, she receives a weight allowance that could prove beneficial.
Marcos Performance rounds out the analysis at 8-1. Also trained by Peter Miller with Ricardo Gonzalez aboard, this two-year-old gelding provides the stable with two legitimate chances. Miller’s dual entry strategy suggests confidence in both runners’ ability to compete effectively.
Selections
Win: Track Tiger
Place: Very Quiet
Show: Fumano’s Magic
Track Tiger receives the top selection based on O’Neill’s exceptional record with two-year-olds and favorable race conditions. Very Quiet provides value from the powerful Miller stable with strong 2025 statistics. Fumano’s Magic completes the ticket as a consistent performer.
Race 7 – Maiden Special Weight Two-Year-Olds
Post Time: 3:32 PM PST
Distance: 6 1/2 Furlongs, Dirt – Purse: $45,000
Pace Analysis
This maiden special weight event for two-year-old colts at 6 1/2 furlongs represents one of the most competitive races on the card. The field includes multiple runners from elite trainers including Bob Baffert, Richard Mandella, and Neil Drysdale. The pace should develop moderately with Greenwich Village and Falcon Jet likely showing tactical speed from their respective Baffert barn. The distance favors precocious juveniles with tactical versatility, and the purse structure attracts well-bred prospects making debuts or early career starts.
Key Contenders
Greenwich Village draws significant support at 2-1 morning line. Trained by Bob Baffert with Juan Hernandez riding, this two-year-old colt represents the powerful partnership that has dominated major races throughout 2025. Baffert’s exceptional record with juvenile colts provides confidence, and Hernandez supplies expert handling as one of Southern California’s leading riders. The breeding suggests this colt should handle the distance effectively.
Falcon Jet merits equal consideration at 5-2. Also trained by Baffert with Ricardo Gonzalez aboard, this two-year-old colt provides the Hall of Fame trainer with dual chances. Baffert’s decision to enter two horses suggests strong stable confidence in both colts’ ability to win. Gonzalez has shown solid statistics throughout the meet, providing capable handling. The breeding indicates he should appreciate this distance.
Easy Company represents the powerful Richard Mandella stable at 4-1. The two-year-old colt pairs with Diego Herrera, providing experienced handling. Mandella ranks among the elite trainers in Southern California with a strong win percentage, making any horse from his barn a legitimate threat. The Hall of Fame conditioner’s expertise with developing juveniles enhances this colt’s chances significantly.
Secondary Choices
Sterling Sea attracts attention at 4-1. Trained by Philip D’Amato with Kazushi Kimura riding, this two-year-old gelding represents another quality stable. D’Amato has demonstrated competence throughout 2025, and Kimura provides tactical ability. The gelding operation suggests connections sought to manage the horse more effectively.
Whynotanotherone rounds out the secondary choices at 6-1. Trained by Robert Hess Jr. with Tyler Baze aboard, this two-year-old colt brings professional connections. Hess maintains solid statistics at the meet, and Baze’s experience makes him dangerous in competitive maiden events.
Selections
Win: Falcon Jet
Place: Greenwich Village
Show: Easy Company
Falcon Jet receives the top selection as a Baffert runner with favorable breeding and capable Gonzalez handling. Greenwich Village provides value as the Baffert stablemate with Hernandez aboard. Easy Company completes the ticket from the powerful Mandella stable.
Race 8 – Starlet Stakes Grade 2
Post Time: 4:02 PM PST
Distance: 1 1/16 Miles, Dirt – Purse: $200,000
Pace Analysis
The Grade 2 Starlet Stakes represents the marquee event on the card, featuring six two-year-old fillies competing at 1 1/16 miles. The pace scenario should develop with Nimah expected to show tactical brilliance from the break, having won her debut wire-to-wire. Himika possesses tactical speed and could press or stalk the pace. Cashed brings forward speed that could produce honest early fractions. The two-turn configuration favors fillies with tactical versatility and stamina influences in their pedigree.
The race serves as a Kentucky Oaks prep with points awarded to the top finishers. Bob Baffert seeks his ninth consecutive Starlet Stakes victory, having won with Dream Tree, Chasing Yesterday, Bast, Varda, Eda, Faser, Nothing Like You, and Tenma from 2017-2024. The historical dominance creates significant pressure on non-Baffert runners to upset the pattern.
Key Contenders
Nimah draws favoritism at 6-5 morning line. Trained by Bob Baffert with Juan Hernandez riding, this two-year-old filly brings impressive credentials despite limited racing experience. She won her debut wire-to-wire at Del Mar on November 23 by 1 3/4 lengths, earning a 90 Brisnet Speed rating. The daughter of Gun Runner out of an A.P. Indy mare possesses the breeding to handle today’s distance, with stamina influences prominent on both sides of her pedigree. Hernandez has partnered with Baffert for multiple recent winners, providing the tactical expertise necessary for two-turn racing. The relatively short turnaround since her November 23 debut represents a minor concern, though Baffert’s training acumen suggests she should handle the quick return effectively.
Himika represents significant value at 5-2 morning line. The most seasoned runner in the field with six previous starts, this Curlin filly out of Motivated Seller has compiled earnings of $222,822 while winning three races including the Grade 3 Sorrento Stakes. Trained by Baffert for owners Baoma Corporation, she enters off a disappointing second-place finish in the Desi Arnaz Stakes on November 16, where she went off as the 1-5 favorite but failed to hold off Revera. Tyler Baze takes over the riding assignment from Juan Hernandez, providing experienced handling. Her only previous attempt at today’s distance resulted in a fifth-place finish in the Grade 2 Oak Leaf on October 4, raising questions about her stamina for two turns. However, the additional experience and class background make her a formidable threat if she has matured since the Oak Leaf.
Consequent merits serious consideration at 3-1. The third Baffert entry, this Into Mischief filly out of the Uncle Mo mare Cognitive brings two-turn experience that stablemate Nimah lacks. She debuted at one mile on November 14, coming from off the pace to win by half a length as the 13-10 favorite while earning $36,000. Bred by the prestigious Juddmonte Farms, her pedigree suggests she should appreciate today’s distance. Kazushi Kimura retains the mount after guiding her to debut victory, providing continuity. The tactical versatility to rate off the pace could prove advantageous if the early fractions develop quickly. Her debut at one mile demonstrated she possesses the stamina foundation necessary for 1 1/16 miles.
Secondary Choices
Cosmic Heat represents the Doug O’Neill stable at 8-1. The two-year-old filly finished third in the Desi Arnaz Stakes behind the winner and Himika, demonstrating she belongs in graded company. Now training for O’Neill after that race, she makes her first attempt beyond seven furlongs. The daughter of Maximum Security out of the Tapit mare Star Rampage has won once in 12 starts with earnings of $33,000, pulling off an 11-1 upset in her debut on October 17. Armando Ayuso takes the riding assignment, providing the meet’s leading jockey aboard an improving filly. The class and distance represent significant questions, though O’Neill’s expertise with two-year-old fillies provides confidence she can compete.
Cashed enters at 8-1 for trainer Doug O’Neill. This two-year-old filly pairs with Tiago Pereira and brings improving speed figures. She broke her maiden at six furlongs at Santa Anita, then finished a distant second when attempting to set the pace in the one-mile Desi Arnaz Stakes while earning a 107 final time rating. The California-bred daughter represents O’Neill’s primary chance with tactical speed that could secure favorable early position. The jump to 1 1/16 miles represents a significant distance test, though her pedigree suggests stamina potential exists.
Jewlz completes the field at 20-1. Trained by Peter Miller with Ricardo Gonzalez riding, this two-year-old filly moves up dramatically in class after defeating $32,000 maidens in her first attempt at two turns. The Jersey Town filly out of the Not Bourbon mare Bourbon Gleam won by a nose over Can’t Say That, with both fillies pulling nearly 11 lengths clear of the third-place finisher. While the class jump appears severe, Miller’s strong 2025 statistics and Gonzalez’s capable handling make her a potential longshot value play. Her maiden victory demonstrated she possesses the stamina for today’s distance, though the quality of competition she faced pales compared to this graded stakes field.
Selections
Win: Nimah
Place: Consequent
Show: Himika
Nimah receives the top selection based on Baffert’s dominant eight-year winning streak in this race and the filly’s impressive debut performance. Her Gun Runner-A.P. Indy pedigree suggests the stamina for 1 1/16 miles, and Hernandez provides expert handling. The quick turnaround represents a minor concern, though Baffert’s training acumen suggests she should handle the situation.
Consequent provides value as the logical Baffert alternative with two-turn experience and Juddmonte breeding. Her debut at one mile demonstrated stamina foundations, and the tactical versatility to rate off the pace could prove advantageous. Kimura’s retention of the mount provides continuity.
Himika completes the ticket based on experience and class credentials. Despite the Oak Leaf disappointment at this distance, she possesses the most accomplished resume in the field with Grade 3 stakes success. The switch to Baze could provide a fresh tactical approach.
The Baffert trio dominates the race, with Nimah appearing best positioned to extend the trainer’s remarkable winning streak to nine consecutive years. Consequent offers the strongest alternative given her two-turn experience, while Himika’s class and experience make her a logical show horse despite distance concerns.
Race 9 – Allowance Optional Claiming California-Bred
Post Time: 4:32 PM PST
Distance: 5 1/2 Furlongs, Dirt – Purse: $46,000
Pace Analysis
This competitive allowance optional claiming sprint for California-bred runners should produce honest early fractions with multiple horses possessing tactical speed. Jaguar Jon and Grazed figure as the likely pacesetters or stalkers, with Please Focus and Clever Clover tracking closely. The $46,000 purse structure and restricted conditions create a quality field of state-bred runners competing for allowance-level purse money. The pace should develop sustainably but competitively, potentially favoring horses with tactical versatility.
Key Contenders
Jaguar Jon draws support at 3-1 morning line. The three-year-old gelding trained by Andy Mathis pairs with Tyler Baze, providing experienced handling. The Om gelding brings youth to a field that includes older rivals, potentially offering improvement as he continues developing. Baze’s tactical ability makes him dangerous in competitive sprints where early positioning proves critical. The gelding’s recent form suggests he belongs at this allowance level.
Grazed merits serious consideration at 7-2. The seven-year-old gelding trained by Peter Miller with Diego Herrera riding represents a powerful stable-jockey combination. Miller’s strong 2025 win percentage makes any horse from his barn a legitimate threat, and Herrera provides capable handling. The veteran gelding appears on re-entry after a previous race, suggesting connections believe he is ready for a strong effort. His experience at this level provides confidence he can compete effectively.
Please Focus attracts attention at 5-1. The five-year-old gelding trained by George Lopez pairs with Ricardo Gonzalez, continuing a partnership that has shown results. Handicappers note he adds early fuel to the fire with tactical speed, suggesting he should secure favorable early position. The consistency of competing at this allowance level demonstrates he belongs in this company.
Secondary Choices
Clever Clover represents trainer Sean McCarthy at 6-1. The four-year-old gelding draws William Antongeorgi III as rider, providing capable handling. McCarthy maintains solid statistics at the meet, making his runners dangerous in competitive allowance events. The gelding’s recent form suggests he can compete at this level.
Its a Cinch rounds out the analysis at 6-1. Trained by Luis Mendez with Edwin Maldonado riding, this three-year-old gelding brings youth and potential improvement. The lighter impost as a three-year-old provides a tangible advantage against older rivals.
Selections
Win: Jaguar Jon
Place: Grazed
Show: Please Focus
Jaguar Jon receives the selection based on Baze’s tactical ability and the gelding’s youth suggesting continued improvement. Grazed provides value from the powerful Miller stable with strong 2025 statistics. Please Focus completes the ticket with tactical speed and consistency.
Jockey Notes and Insights
Tyler Baze has demonstrated solid form at the current Los Alamitos meet with multiple stakes victories and strong statistics. His tactical ability and experience make him dangerous on any mount, particularly in competitive claiming and allowance races where early positioning proves critical. Baze rides Himika in the Starlet Stakes, taking over from Juan Hernandez, and also has mounts in the first and ninth races aboard Invincible and Jaguar Jon respectively.
Juan Hernandez continues as Bob Baffert’s go-to rider for major stakes assignments. He partners with Nimah in the Starlet Stakes and Greenwich Village in the seventh race, both representing significant win opportunities. Hernandez has guided three Baffert winners recently and provides expert handling in two-turn races where tactical decisions prove crucial.
Armando Ayuso has emerged as the leading rider at the current meet with exceptional statistics. His presence on any mount elevates that horse’s chances significantly, particularly in maiden and claiming races where small advantages prove decisive. Ayuso rides Tiger of the Sea in the third race, Rythem Girl in the second, Cosmic Heat in the Starlet Stakes, Dreamrider in the seventh, and Kiki Ride in the fifth race, providing multiple win opportunities throughout the card.
Ricardo Gonzalez has shown solid form with multiple stakes placings and consistent efforts. He partners with Falcon Jet in the seventh race for Bob Baffert, Jewlz in the Starlet Stakes for Peter Miller, and Please Focus in the ninth race. His tactical ability and experience make him reliable in competitive fields.
Kazushi Kimura maintains strong statistics throughout the meet with effective tactical riding. He rides Sensational Z Z in the second race, Boundless Optimist in the fourth, Consequent in the Starlet Stakes, and Sterling Sea in the seventh race. The Kimura-Baffert partnership in the Starlet on Consequent represents a strong win opportunity.
Tiago Pereira has demonstrated excellent success with first-time starters and consistently delivers professional rides. He partners with Rousing Jewel in the second race, Honey Bucket in the third, Cashed in the Starlet Stakes, and One Happy Dude in the fifth race. His success rate with debut runners makes One Happy Dude particularly intriguing.
Kyle Frey provides experienced handling and maintains solid connections with multiple quality stables. He rides Money Mitch in the fourth race, Matts Advisor in the fifth race if that horse runs, and Track Tiger in the sixth race for Doug O’Neill. The Frey-O’Neill partnership on Track Tiger represents the strongest play among his mounts.
Diego Herrera shows consistent form throughout the meet with multiple trainers. He rides Grazed in the ninth race for Peter Miller, Easy Company in the seventh for Richard Mandella, and Fumano’s Magic in the sixth race. His partnerships with elite trainers provide multiple opportunities for success.
Trainer Notes and Insights
Bob Baffert dominates the card with seven entries across three races. His pursuit of a ninth consecutive Starlet Stakes victory with three runners represents the headline story. Nimah, Himika, and Consequent give him overwhelming advantage in that Grade 2 event. Additionally, he sends out Greenwich Village and Falcon Jet in the seventh race maiden special weight, both appearing formidable. His historical dominance in the Starlet Stakes cannot be overstated, having won every running since 2017 with fillies who went on to successful three-year-old campaigns.
Doug O’Neill fields multiple runners throughout the card with expertise developing two-year-olds. His Hall of Fame credentials include two Kentucky Derby victories with juveniles that developed into champions. Track Tiger in the sixth race represents his strongest individual chance, though Cosmic Heat and Cashed both merit consideration in the Starlet Stakes despite being longshots. O’Neill’s tactical approach with young horses makes all his runners dangerous.
Peter Miller maintains exceptional statistics throughout 2025 with strong win percentages. His stable fields multiple runners including Very Quiet and Marcos Performance in the sixth race, Jewlz in the Starlet Stakes, and Grazed in the ninth race. Miller’s success rate makes any horse from his barn a legitimate threat, and his dual entries in races suggest strong stable confidence.
Richard Mandella brings Hall of Fame credentials and strong 2025 form to the card. Easy Company in the seventh race represents his primary chance, and Mandella’s expertise developing juveniles provides confidence. His win percentage and ability to place horses at appropriate levels make him consistently dangerous.
Jerry Hollendorfer fields Boundless Optimist in the fourth race maiden claiming event. His experience with maidens and ability to find spots where his horses can succeed make this gelding a logical favorite despite the claiming level.
Genaro Vallejo maintains an active presence with multiple entries throughout the card. His stable includes Littlebrotherjoey in the first race, Unbreakable Trust in the first race, Promise Me Kat in the second race, Cote Blanc in the third race, First to Fly in the fourth race, and Maximum Gladiator in the seventh race. While Vallejo operates primarily at claiming and maiden levels, his horses often represent value plays given realistic placement.
Steve Knapp demonstrates solid statistics with claiming fillies and mares. Rousing Jewel in the second race and One Happy Dude in the fifth race represent his strongest opportunities. Knapp’s success with debut runners makes One Happy Dude particularly intriguing despite limited public information.
Tim McCanna maintains competence with claiming horses and maidens. His entries include Matts Advisor in the fifth race if that horse runs after appearing on the scratch watch, and Chokechery Shari in the second race. McCanna’s stable often produces competitive efforts at realistic claiming levels.
Best Wagering Strategies and Value Plays
The Starlet Stakes in the eighth race presents the most significant wagering opportunity on the card. Bob Baffert’s pursuit of nine consecutive victories creates a dominant narrative, though the 6-5, 5-2, and 3-1 prices on his three entries offer limited value for straight win wagering. The optimal strategy involves constructing multi-race sequences using the Starlet as a single or key race.
A Pick 3 covering races 6-7-8 provides structure using Track Tiger as a single in the sixth race, spreading slightly in the seventh race maiden special weight with Greenwich Village and Falcon Jet, then using Nimah and Consequent in the Starlet. This sequence requires $12 investment for a 1x2x2 ticket and positions bettors to capitalize on Baffert’s dominance while protecting against minor upsets.
The Pick 4 spanning races 5-6-7-8 offers larger payouts by adding the challenging fifth race maiden claiming event. Using One Happy Dude and Desert Kat in the fifth, singling Track Tiger in the sixth, using Greenwich Village and Falcon Jet in the seventh, and Nimah with Consequent in the Starlet creates a $16 ticket (2x1x2x2) with significant upside if the sequence holds.
For aggressive bettors, a Pick 5 covering races 4-5-6-7-8 maximizes return potential. Using Boundless Optimist and Money Mitch in the fourth, spreading three deep in the fifth with One Happy Dude, Desert Kat, and Kiki Ride, singling Track Tiger in the sixth, using two in the seventh, and two in the Starlet creates a $24 ticket (2x3x1x2x2) with substantial payout potential.
Exacta wagering in the Starlet offers value boxing Nimah and Consequent for $4, or constructing a $6 exacta using Nimah on top with Consequent and Himika underneath, and Consequent on top with Nimah underneath. This protects against either Baffert runner winning while minimizing investment on the longest-priced Baffert filly.
The ninth race closing allowance optional claiming event provides opportunities for aggressive exacta and trifecta wagering. Keying Jaguar Jon on top in exactas with Grazed and Please Focus creates a $4 ticket with solid value potential. Expanding to trifectas using Jaguar Jon on top with Grazed, Please Focus, Clever Clover, and Its a Cinch creates multiple winning combinations.
Single-race wagering finds value in the fourth race where Boundless Optimist at 2-1 represents fair odds for a Hollendorfer maiden. The sixth race offers legitimate value on Track Tiger at 8-5 given Doug O’Neill’s expertise with two-year-olds. The seventh race presents challenges with multiple Baffert entries, though Falcon Jet at 5-2 offers slight value over Greenwich Village at 2-1.
For bettors seeking longshot value, Cosmic Heat in the Starlet at 8-1 represents an intriguing Doug O’Neill-trained filly moving up in class but showing improvement. In the ninth race, Its a Cinch at 6-1 offers value as a lightly-raced three-year-old eligible for improvement against older rivals.
The overall wagering strategy should emphasize multi-race sequences using Baffert’s dominance in races 7 and 8 as foundation while spreading in the more contentious claiming and maiden races. The compressed odds on Baffert runners make them more valuable as key horses in Pick 3, Pick 4, and Pick 5 sequences rather than straight win wagering. Exacta and trifecta wagering in the competitive claiming races offers better value return potential than betting Baffert favorites at short prices.
Daily double opportunities exist connecting the Starlet with the ninth race finale. Using Nimah and Consequent with Jaguar Jon, Grazed, and Please Focus creates a $12 ticket (2×3) with solid return potential if the favorites hold. This provides cushion against minor upsets while maintaining reasonable investment levels.
Place Pick All wagering offers another strategic approach, requiring horses to finish first or second in consecutive races. Constructing tickets using logical contenders in each race provides opportunities for substantial returns while offering more margin for error than traditional Pick sequences requiring wins only.
The optimal bankroll allocation emphasizes multi-race wagering over single-race plays given the competitive nature of most events and compressed odds on logical favorites. Dedicate 60-70% of total wagering budget to Pick 3, Pick 4, and Pick 5 sequences, 20-30% to exacta and trifecta wagering in competitive races, and 10% to strategic win and place bets on horses offering genuine value at their morning line odds.
