by “Catskill” Steve Terjanian

Catskill Steve offers his picks for the $25,000 Pick-4 at Balmoral Park on July 28, part of the U.S. Trotting Association Strategic Wagering Program.

Balmoral Park Pick-4, Races 7-10, Sunday, July 28, 2013

$1 play: 349/156/610/3 = $18

Analysis:

Race 7: (3) MJ’s Sista left well for the lead and yielded, but couldn’t keep the pocket closed to 27-1 shot, had trouble keeping up through quick pace and got locked in, slipped out turning for home and came widest of all to avoid traffic; finished strongly in hard to gauge effort. Gets key driver switch to Oosting who has won with her the last two times he steered and may be best. (4) Peacelovepace wired weaker at Maywood from seven hole two back, then had a tough trip last time following, then losing cover past a slow half, continuing on first over through :28.1 third quarter before calling it quits. Returns to the big track where she chased fast miles in her last visit and should give the top one a battle. (9) Whatasweetflight made a :27.4 third quarter brush to improve position, chased a monster front runner home in solid effort, finishing in front of top one among others. Doesn’t win often and draws tough post but value will be there and that last mile was an improvement.

Race 8: (1) Van Donk blew out lesser in fast mile, may handle tougher. (6) Tangible Hope had strong pace finishing after being shuffled in first start for new barn. Makes second start at reduced level and beat top one with strong stretch rally on June 29. (5) Reckoning Day returns from Hoosier Park where he had a tough trip from 10 hole in last after launching :56.2 final half rally to nail place two back. Should be factored in with these.

Race 9: (6) Fox Valley Absolut has been chasing tough mares in recent; takes key drop and can boss these. (10) Thank You Doc has been overmatched against stakes fillies in recent. Returns to reality, switches to Oosting and is capable of improvement despite drawing 10 hole.

Race 10: (3) Arch Villain was a pick here last week and made break before the start; two back, didn’t fade badly after making two moves against tougher in fast mile. Finds a nice spot in finale and should go well at this level.

Good luck!