Ryan's Gift has failed at short odds in his last pair and in three of his four starts, including when 2nd of four March 4. He earned a big number in that small field, but such lineups can produce false figures. His two previous races suggest that he's not as good as neighbor He's a Scrooge. Asmussen claimed that one Jan 13, ran him back for more Feb 25 and saw him tired to 2nd as the odds-on favorite. This further jump in class is a good sign. He lands an HF 15a, while comebacking second-timer Trust of Honor deserves an upset chance. He capped his eight-work pattern with a swift 5F drill March 1. Too Big to Fail is the first-timer of note.
First-timer Report: King's Pardon is a $280,000 yearling with decent win-early breeding, but Zito generally races his stock into shape. All three of his siblings are winners and two of them were mutliple sprint winners. His eight works to date have been just OK. Too Big to Fail debuts for Richard Violette and is rookies have hit the board at a 50% clip while winning at nearly a 20% clip. He's been in and out of training since last June, including 10 works since Dec 31. The $45,000 yearling may be well meant.
CLOSERS: Fastest in the stretch in recent races at or near this distance have been: He's a Scrooge :24.6 - Calvello :25.4 - Lloydobler :25.5
Make Better Handicapping Decisions in Less Time With More Confidence Using Today’s Racing Digest. Get the full card or more free picks at www.todaysracingdigest.com