by Ayers Ratliff, Northfield Park Publicity Department

Ayers Ratliff offers his picks for the $10,000 Pick-4 at Northfield Park on Dec. 10, part of the U.S. Trotting Association Strategic Wagering Program.

Northfield Park Pick-4, Races 8-11, Saturday, Dec. 10, 2011

On Saturday (Dec. 10), Northfield Park is again offering a $10,000 guaranteed Pick-4 pool. Northfield Park’s Pick-4 starts in race eight and offers a 14 percent takeout rate (the lowest in harness racing).

$ 1 play: 13/237/126/5 = $18

Analysis:

Race 8: (1) Ota B D Best gets the rail and gets Palone; both good reasons to bet. (3) Beau Jet looks to be in good form and has been pacing some monster miles.

Race 9: (2) Northmedo Cruiser was parked last week; looks like a legitimate contender with a good trip. (3) Grand Sam looks to draw into the best spot he has since changing barns. (7) Wildflower Hanover looks for her third win in a row; Jarrod Duncan barn in on fire.

Race 10: (1) Jenna’s Dream has been drawing poorly; he is a major player from the rail. (2) Loud Echo looks for his fifth win in a row; Langley has turned him into a monster. (6) War Dancer does not draw the best here, but was a winner from post eight last week.

Race 11– $162,200 Cleveland Classic: (5) Westwardho Hanover. Talented Dragon Again colt looks to go gate-to-wire.