by ‘Catskill’ Steve Terjanian

Catskill Steve offers his picks for the $20,000 Pick-4 at Balmoral Park on Nov. 8, part of the U.S. Trotting Association Strategic Wagering Program.

Balmoral Park Pick-4, Races 10-13, Saturday, November 8, 2014

$1 play: 347/348/34/4 = $18

Analysis:

Race 10: (4) Firstclassalltheway didn’t show much in recent Hoosier starts but was able to finish swiftly in last two. Returns to Balmoral at reduced level and could be set for a big mile from this spot. (7) Life Is Good Today left and was parked past :28.2 quarter, chased a fast pace and finished well pacing an identical :28.2 kicker in improved mile. Pacer is just 3 for his last 73 but has been victim of some poor spots and switches to leading driver after showing life last time. (3) Smoke Rings lacked a rally last time following a strong closing place finish behind one of the sharpest and most improved pacers on the grounds two back. May be able to work out a trip and has a shot in a race with a lot of possibilities and no stand out.

Race 11: (3) Western Slammer held well after chasing a :27.1 third panel uncovered, gets key driver switch and can prove best. (8) Monopoly Man took some money from similar spot last time in first start since June and only second of the year. The 4-year-old paced a solid 1:23.4 final three-quarters in a race he needed and now makes second start for new barn and second for a tag. Had a solid season last year and be worth a price. (4) Major Male never found clearance in same race as top two last time after finding that clearance and rallying late to score at this level two back.

Race 12: (5) Washington Hanover bottomed out making a :26.2 second quarter brush to the top and tired after completing a sizzling :54 middle half. Drops to the level of a strong show finish two back and may brush past these. (4) Special Joe classy 9-year-old followed a strong qualifier up with useful tightener off short layoff. Finds a better spot and switches to “Double OO”.

Race 13: (4) Nancys Skyscape hasn’t done much since bumping up to this level but has paced some quick middle halves including a :53.4 number last time, concluding the final three-quarters in 1:22.2 and may be ready to upset from better spot tonight.