This year the Laz Barberra Stakes has more question marks than usual. Some newcomers, horses stretching out and The Puppy highlight this year’s field.
Ferocious goes for the hat trick with Smokin Joe Talamo in the saddle. Last 2 races have been fast and has already defeated his main opponent Chelios in this spot. Hits hard at 7 furlongs and figures to be the speed again from the inside post. Sharp, fit and dangerous, others will have to improve to take him down in this spot.
Tonito M Is the Puerto Rican Sensation that makes his stateside debut. Not since Mister Frisky came to California has a horse been anticipated. Nick Rogers @n_rogers 53 has been waiting for this guy for months. With a long string of works including a bullet work last week at 6 furlongs, he should fire off the layoff with his last race in February. With a 6 for 7 mark he figures to fit on class, but this is always a whole new level and four of his wins have been in 4 horse fields in Puerto Rico. Rock Hard Ten son hits hard in this spot and is playable at the 7/1 or higher.
Kobe’s Back has an interesting resume. When he runs well, he seems to dominate. But poor start in the slop 2 races back and a move too late in the Bay Shore has him searching for answers with a salty group. Have a feeling the other horses have caught up to him and he doesn’t lay over this field as much as he did back in February. Early developer will have to start new against tough horses.
Chelios is probably using this as a true distance prep. Won in impressive fashion in January and then was defeated in last race. Goes to Gary Stevens who road him to victory. Look to be close to the pace, relax the first half mile and put in a solid run down the lane. If he finishes strong it sets him up for possibly stretching out. Still needs to determine class level. But has a lot of qualities I like in a horse with only 3 lifetime starts.
Twenty Percent opened his career with a huge maiden win. The son of Dixie Union ran off the screen with a fast speed figure. Has worked sharply and Mike Smith stays on him. Could be the now horse, and wouldn’t surprise if he won or if he finished 5th. Like the talent and the crop out west needs some new horses to step up.
Puppy Manners is the Kitten Reject with a great name. The Puppy has done it all in his 10 race career. He has raced on Synthetic, raced on the turf, sprinted and also went 9 furlongs. Cuts back to 7 furlongs and may ultimately be a late running sprinter. One of the few Kittens who doesn’t seem to prefer turf.
The Pace:
Ferocious looms large as the speed. Chelios should sit a good trip. Kobel’s Back will be a low price and will come from behind.
The Choice:
Ferocious looks for the hat trick. Still has some upside and has the rail. Chelios may ultimately be a route horse, but is capable of winning in this spot as well.