9/8 (DMR): Del Mar Futurity (G1)

[RockHardTen1985]

This was hard for me to handicap with no Smash, and no Baffert at all... Here is is though.

Race:8
Handicapper Picks:2-5-4
Race Notes:#2 RIVETING REASON looks like a long shot with a big chance in the Grade 1 Del Mar Futurity. This guy has shown different running styles in his 2 career races so far. First time out he was off slowly and closed well to run third, second time out he showed sharp speed and just got nailed late to finish second after being pressed every step of the race. 12-1 on the morning line is generous even though this guy is still a maiden. Note the trainers recent success in this race. #5 JUST IMAGINE has been well bet in his first 2 career starts, only to be a disappointment so far. Leading trainer Doug O’Neil is in the headlines recently for another positive drug test on his horses. Don’t put it past the all time great chemist to have this guy ready to fire a huge shot today now that the price will be right. #4 JP’S GUSTO will be a well deserved post time favorite. He has sharp speed and has shown he can win from just off the pace. It would be a nice ending to Patrick Valenzuela’s comeback to pick up this Grade 1.