#3 TIZAMAGICIAN has the distinction of running second to Honor A.P., the John Shirreffs-trained colt who we consider a top Kentucky Derby (G1) prospect. Trained by Hall of Famer Richard Mandella, his main competition in the Robert B. Lewis Stakes (G3) is probably Bob Baffert trainee #2 THOUSAND WORDS, an undefeated son of Pioneerof the Nile who won the Los Alamitos Futurity (G2) in December. Baffert’s other entrant, #5 HIGH VELOCITY also has claims to the top prize and gets Joel Rosario to ride him this afternoon.
The seven-furlong Swale (G3) brings out an interesting field at Gulfstream Park, where rain is in the forecast. #5 SHIVAREE is being trained to sprint and that could serve him well in this field full of Triple Crown aspirants who have bigger fish to fry. The word, “freak,” has been used in conjunction with #2 UNTITLED in backside conversations this week. Now in the care of Mark Casse, the son of Khozan broke his maiden by 11 against Florida-breds in his first start for trainer Ralph Nicks and seems to have a bright future. Regally-bred #1 MISCHIEVOUS ALEX is proven at the distance and should love an off track. Hot-riding Irad Ortiz, Jr. takes the call and that speaks volumes.
Aqueduct’s Withers (G3) is a mile and an eighth. A difference-making distance for a lot of horses, #5 SHOTSKI won the Remsen (G3) at today’s distance, putting that question mark to bed. There are several things to like about the son of Blame, including his sharp speed figures and solid stable. He’ll face off with American Pharoah’s son, #6 PRINCE OF PHAROAHS, from the powerful Linda Rice barn. It looks like he’s ready to take on the extra furlong this afternoon.
The Holy Bull (G3) has been a key race on the Kentucky Derby (G1) trail for many years. #3 TIZ THE LAW was the best juvenile we saw in person last year. The Barclay Tagg trainee has been thoughtfully handled with the goal of the Kentucky Derby (G1) in mind all along and this race should be contested on a fast track. #1 TOLEDO hails from Juddmonte Farms, so we know the quality is present. His flashy pedigree, solid works and glittering trainer combine to make him a solid contender in this spot. Good things come to those who wait and trainer Chad Brown has plenty of patience. #4 ETE INDIAN had early success on the turf, but moved to the main track for his last start and responded with a big win! He must be respected in this field and he may be better than originally considered.