Nothing like a hump day winner!  I like a few picks early in the card, and I think they can be paired up for multi-race gimmicks. Take a look, and be sure to compare the tier levels of the predictions to find value.

Saratoga – Thursday

Race #1 – #7 Arcadius (3-1)

Brian Crowley, and Jonathan Sheppard tune it up together for a nice effort. The barn is winning at 33%, and exits a G-1 action where you can chalk up a nice 3rd place finish. This gelding is by Giant’s Causeway, and looks to be a hurdler sire. Sheppard is always worth a wager on the jumps, and he is a fine horseman overall. I spoke to a trainer friend of mine that was stabled near him when he came to Colonial Downs. He said it was like going to class at the foot of the master. Jonathan never talked down, and only gave advice when asked. His ways were warm, and his efforts always pay off….

Race #2 – #5 Gangsterontherun (6-1)

Alex Solis is up for Wes Ward. First time on lasix, and the dam wins 80% with her 2-yr-olds, and has 7 starters, and 7 winners with a stakes winner. Sharp work on August 2nd at 35.4.  Ward wins 27% with first time starters, and this gelding is by City Zip. The jock and trainer are 70% ITM as a team.

Race #3 – #2 Driven By Success (3-5)

Johnny V in the saddle for Pletcher at a rate of 35% and 63%. The runner is 3/4 is Saratoga, and does incredibly well against New York breds. Won the last race out, and the barn wins 25% on the comeback move. Race #2 begins the Pick-4, and this could make the wager become a Pick-3. He has faced much tougher company, and should be included in all gimmicks.

Good luck!