by Ayers Ratliff, Northfield Park Publicity Department

Ayers Ratliff offers his picks for the $10,000 Pick-4 at Northfield Park on Feb. 25, part of the U.S. Trotting Association Strategic Wagering Program.

Northfield Park Pick-4, races 8-11, Monday, Feb. 25, 2013

On Monday (Feb. 25), Northfield Park will be offering a $10,000 guaranteed pool in the Pick-4. The Pick-4 has a reduced takeout rate of just 14 percent and starts in the eighth race.

$1 play: 9/145/123/48 = $18

Analysis:

Race 8: (9) BV’s Sister was second last start from post seven; draws better tonight and is the class of the field.

Race 9: (1) Superbe Rulah draws the inside advantage and that advantage may be key to doing well tonight. (4) Left’em Standing drops in class and could be the best but still faces some tough customers. (5) Don’t Sugarcoat It has two straight wins and has a shot to garner another.

Race 10: (1) Putnampacingmachine makes his third start back and has every reason to improve. (2) Harmony Oaks Rebel just raced well against better after being interfered with; could win with clear sailing. (3) Ryan Again looks to land on the engine and could still be hanging tough at the wire.

Race 11: (4) Forever Happy has proven to be competitive at this level of competition and should be right there again tonight. (8) Truly The Best appears to be very sharp and could do well despite the poor post draw.