by Frank Cotolo

Frank Cotolo offers his picks for the Pick 4 at Balmoral Park on Aug. 19, part of the USTA Strategic Wagering program.

Balmoral Park Pick 4, Races 7-10, Sunday Aug. 19, 2012

Last Sunday’s ticket had one second, the 12-1 Anthonyskywalker, who is this week’s fourth-leg single. The winning combo paid only $145.80, hardly the price one would embrace had one added to our $4 ticket with a few more possibles and the choices that won. Again, I do not want to shoot for Pick 4s that need not be handicapped with any aplomb because they pay like last Sunday’s paid. Let’s face it, to make $140, all we need is a $20 ticket on a 6-1 shot and then only one result must take place—that winner—not four-straight winners at any price.

$2 play: 7/3/34/6 = $4

Analysis:

Race 7: (7) Easy Richess has got to be strongly respected. The Richess Hanover youngsters can set the track on fire and this one is on the precipice of a huge mile, which could come to pass in this, her third start.

Race 8: (3) Full Service was caught late at Springfield and takes on fillies that are, at best, equal in current form. Still, she may be perfect for this spot at a reasonable price, since we will be going against Truly Magical, unbeaten in two and bound to get a lot of support.

Race 9: (3) Fox Valley Ranier was impressive at 31-1 last week in this same class and at 45-1 before finishing eighth after a speedy middle. She seems to have a single burst of speed that, if handled correctly, could make for the winning move. (4) Butch O’Hare is worth adding in this race since his fiery beginning may also be spread better this time around.

Race 10: (6) Anthonyskywalker was a super 12-1 second last out and has been good among these types. It is about time he showed his best against obvious-choice Run And Tell Pap.