by “Catskill” Steve Terjanian

Catskill Steve offers his picks for the $20,000 Pick-4 at Balmoral Park on Oct. 25, part of the U.S. Trotting Association Strategic Wagering Program.

Balmoral Park Pick-4, Races 10-13, Saturday, Oct. 25, 2014

$1 play: 789/789/4/610 = $18

Analysis:

Race 10: (8) Sleazeburgernfries followed excess cover from 10 hole, paced a :56.3 middle half but couldn’t sustain rally despite finishing in :26.2 to complete a sparkling 1:23 final three-quarters. The 3-year-old continues to show improvement as the year winds down and should be close enough to roll by in the late stages. (9) Fiveknuckleshuffle has been lightly raced (four starts on the year) but seems to be moving forward as evidenced by a :26.2 third quarter brush to romp against lesser in 1:51.2 mile. Steps up and draws outside but looks like the one to beat with anything close to that last mile. (7) Holy Chip finished fast to nail place behind razor sharp winner following a no shot fifth over trip at this level two back. Draws outside but may try leaving for a trip here.

Race 11: (9) Ice Scraper has shown speed chasing sub-1:50 miles in last six starts. The 5-year-old has developed into one of the fastest pacers on the grounds and is capable of going down the road if able to relax a bit more early. (7) Best Man Hanover drops out of the Invitational ranks and has speed to sit the pocket behind top one, a trip he used to beat that one and take a new lifetime mark back in September. (8) Time To Roll never got involved last time following a series of good efforts at this level prior. The classy 5-year-old has earned close to $800,000 lifetime and has won 21 times over past two seasons. A definite threat from off the pace but will need the right trip and best effort.

Race 12: (4) Seeyouatthefinish is a 4-year-old that continues to race consistently well but has had problems defeating the two sharp mares starting from outside. Will likely be sitting in good striking distance turning for home and this could be the week she turns the tables.

Race 13: (10) Wings is a 6-year-old that is at a career peak and has won last two at this level. Sharp enough to overcome post. (6) Dp Angel was overmatched against Indiana Sire Stakes mares in last two but returns to Balmoral and was a good second behind top one in last visit.

Good luck!