by Ayers Ratliff, Northfield Park Publicity Department

Ayers Ratliff offers his picks for the $15,000 Pick-4 at Northfield Park on July 23, part of the U.S. Trotting Association Strategic Wagering Program.

Northfield Park Pick-4, Races 8-11, Monday, July 23, 2012

On Monday (July 23), Northfield Park will be offering a $15,000 guaranteed pool in the Pick-4. The Pick-4 has a reduced takeout rate of just 14 percent (the lowest in harness racing) and starts in the eighth race.

$1 play: 4/249/56/1238 = $24

Analysis:

Race 8: (4) Southern Man turned things around a few weeks ago and looks to do well again if he maintains this new form.

Race 9: (2) Lined With Cash has a big shot to do well in here. (4) Send Cash responded well to Swartz last time; Russell sticks around for another drive and could win in here. (9) Cash N In could improve after being introduced to Lasix.

Race 10: (5) Gypsy Artisan drops in class and looks to do well. (6) Misty’s Dignity dropped to this level last start, but received a bad trip; could win in here with a favorable steer.

Race 11: (1) Ilooklikerudy has won this event in both of his last two races; looks to make it a three-peat here. (2) SJ’s Manawa Sam has been racing very well; look for that trend to continue. (3) Monsieur De Vie moves to the Clabaugh barn and Larry tries to keep this one on stride and going well. (8) Olin can do well in here despite his outside post position.