Saratoga offers handicappers the best in thoroughbred racing. When the level of competition is this high, it may be difficult to decipher who will end up where when they cross the wire.
It’s hard enough to pick a three-horse race at Aqueduct in January. Now you have large fields of 10 or 12 to figure out, and top trainers and riders from which to choose. You, ultimately, will make your choice, but here are a few tips you might want to take into consideration:
Never hurts to go with Pletcher
This may be the only one you have to remember. Always include Todd Pletcher! The world-class handler is seeking his 11th training title at the Spa. He was the runaway leader in earnings last summer, and his fleet had hit the board 57 percent from 131 starts. Win percentage was notably higher on the dirt as opposed to the turf. But because of his reputation, the average win payoff was one of the lowest among top trainers.
Pletcher’s not the only quality trainer to make the trip north — 2013 runner-up Chad Brown had a better win percentage than Pletcher (64 percent from 87 starts). Unlike Pletcher, Brown excels on the grass. Kiaran McLaughlin was the grass leader at 32 percent.
Castellano, Velazquez jockeys to watch
Javier Castellano drew away to an easy riding title last summer. He was 20 wins better than Johnny Velazquez while victorious on 20 percent of his mounts. Johnny V actually had two more wins on the main track than Castellano. Velazquez is Pletchers’ go-to guy and won 30 percent riding his plentiful supply top 2-year-olds. Look for Joel Rosario and the Ortiz brothers, Irad and Jose, to close the gap on the top two.
Post positions are key
No the rail is not the best spot to break from. Last summer, post 4 and post 5 showed the best profitability on both the main track and Mellon turf course. The rail was best when used going long on the turf as horses saved ground. Sooo … the middle of the track rules on both surfaces; and only move inside going two turns on the turf or when you feel your bet will not get trapped.
Keep it simple
Yes its fun to bet the pick six, especially on guaranteed payout days. But you have a better chance of heading to the window wagering on exactas and doubles. Good luck.