by “Catskill” Steve Terjanian

Catskill Steve offers his picks for the $25,000 Pick-4 at Balmoral Park on Feb. 21, part of the U.S. Trotting Association Strategic Wagering Program.

Checking up on Catskill Steve: Sunday night racing was canceled due to artic-like weather conditions.

Meet totals: one winning Pick-4, +$141.30

Balmoral Park Pick-4, races 9-12, Saturday, Feb. 21, 2015

$1 play: 34/479/49/6 = $12

Analysis:

Race 9: You can make a case for almost all in here. I’ll limit it to (3) Firstclassalltheway who held gamely uncovered through :55.2 final half on blustery 5-degree Chicago night and (4) Bestman Hanover who lacked a rally last time after finishing well from impossible fourth over spot two back. Veteran packs a solid late wallop and should be set for big mile in third try off short layoff.

Race 10: (7) Jerrico had no shot against tougher in latest, trying to rally off slow pace; two back was a game uncovered score, taking lifetime best mile at this level, pacing :55.2 final half over track rated sloppy in the process. (4) Alequash Hotspur has come close in last two after making sharp middle half brushes to the top on brutal Chicago nights. (9) Tough The Rock has returned sharp since missing the entire 2014 season, owns some back class and post seems only concern.

Race 11: (4) Justlivinthedream is winless over past two seasons but has looked better in recent including a strong wide move through :28.3 third quarter on night that saw wind chill rated at under zero in latest and a head loss two back after a brave uncovered final half which saw him pace in :56.1. (9) Star Chaser was far back following excess cover, made up good ground late, uncorking :56 final half which included :27.1 final quarter on that 5-degree night in race he likely needed. Draws outside but can leave the gate and will offer value from this spot.

Race 12: I’ll single (6) Flying Rocket who drops to the level he dominated to wrap up the 2014 season and may prove too tough for these.

Good luck!