Black-Eyed Susan Day

Tweet It's Black-Eyed Susan Day at Pimlico, where 13 races starting in just a few minutes will be on tap today, with live coverage from espn2 at 3:30pm for races 8 through 12 (the feature). The two big races are the Pimlico Special Handicap for 4yo's and up, which was featured yesterday here, and the Black-Eyed Susan (race 12) for 3yo fillies.

My sources tell me it is drizzling today at pimlico, but the weather should not be a factor as it was on Oaks day at Churchill. In the Special, I like AP Arrow to handle this field under the red-hot Ramon Dominguez for the Toddster. For second I like Grasshopper who seems to always catch a piece of the exacta to be followed by Gottcha Gold and Temporary Saint. Those four are the front end of my main Special/Preakness double plays. I'm still not sold on 7yo Wanderin Boy on two weeks rest to be a factor.

In the day's feature event, the Grade 2 Black-Eyed Susan, there are several top contenders in the 3yo filly category taking a shot at the $200K purse. Highest Class, gets Robby Albardo back and should rebound to the form shown in her stakes at the Fair Grounds versus Indian Blessing and Proud Spell, she's the top choice here. Sweet Vendetta, bred by David Cassidy, (did Susan Dey have black eyes...could be a clue) also comes off two of three wins, her second to Oaks 2nd place finisher Little Belle. Shes All Eltish is my choice to round out the trifecta with GG in the irons. Others to consider in the exotics, Bsharpsonata (my Oaks choice running back on 2 weeks rest) and Maren's Meadows (Jones/Saez) who comes off a nice win in the Bourbonette at Turfway and this barn has a nice record off the layoff.

In Preakness news, it appears that Behindatthebar is out, reducing the field to 12 horses. Dick Powell likes Ichabad Crane, Kentucky Bear and Giant Moon. He was on target with Denis of Cork being a factor in the Derby, and his opinion has to be respected. Preakness plays to be displayed tomorrow morning. Good luck to all!