by Ayers Ratliff, Northfield Park Publicity Department

Ayres Ratliff offers his picks for the $30,000 Pick-5 at Northfield Park on Nov. 28, part of the U.S. Trotting Association Strategic Wagering Program.

Northfield Park Pick-5, Races 3-7, Monday, Nov. 28, 2011

On Monday (Nov. 28), Northfield Park will offer a $30,000 guaranteed pool in the Pick-5. Beginning in Race 3, the $30,000 guarantee includes a carryover of $7,779.25. Northfield Park’s Pick-5, Pick-4 and Pick-3 wagers offer a reduced takeout rate of just 14 percent (the lowest in harness racing).

$1 play: 23/12/12/26/16 = $32

Analysis:

Race 3: (2) Wild Pitch changed barns last week; Joyner has had another week to work with him. (3) Vesper As. The 2-year-old may need to mature but has enough speed to win if she stays on the trot.

Race 4: (1) Blueridge Tooquick. Lasix has helped; this field looks to be at his mercy if he races like he did in his last start. (2) MA Mack. Second start for the Knipper barn; could improve.

Race 5: (1) Filou Dream. Ehrhardt looks to have this trotter back on the right track. (2) Jailhouse Dale has a much improved post position and should do better.

Race 6: (2) Lindy Five Hundred has been drawing poorly and facing tougher; should be tough from here. (6) Go Merrily Along has been the runner-up in three of his last five races; could step up and get the win.

Race 7: (1) No Escape N. Langly has not worked his magic with this one (yet); odds may not be worth the risk to single so will pick an “upsetter” too. (6) Goodnite Wilbur made improvements in his last race; could score at decent odds.