by Al Cimaglia
April 14, 2025
Yonkers Raceway has a 12-race card to begin the week. The $1.00 Pick 5 rolls in Race 5 and has a $20,000 guaranteed pool. The $2.00 Late Pick 4 starts in Race 9, and it will be my focus.
Comments and selections below are based on a fast track.
Race 9 (9:25 PM EST)
2-Shazam Blue Chip (5/2)-This is a suspect bunch when racing at this classification. The Engblom entry may have the best potential for winning at this level. Tonight, draws well to get on the engine and Jason Bartlett is between the pipes. Plus, it has raced on an off-track from post 7 in the last 2 starts, and its wet track record is 1-28.
Race 10 (9:45 PM EST)
4-Howlenthehills (9/2)-Was in the deep water in its 4-year-debut. Gets post relief and faces some his own age and is in a more comfortable spot to cash the top check.
7-Heza Charttopper A (2-1)-Winner of the 3 straight is dangerous to leave off the ticket even with an outside post draw. Doesn't need to land on the point off the gate to win. Does have enough gate speed to get a close-up seat and be the best down the lane.
Race 11 (10:05 PM EST)
1-The Ideal Dancer A (5/2)-Recent form has been dull. Now drops to the level of its last 2 wins which came back-to-back leaving from the rail. This is a logical play but can't fully trust.
3-Quality Bud (8-1)-Price shot raced on an-off track in the last 2 start and wet track record is only 3-42. Will take a swing in a contest without a true standout. Brent Holland could be stalking close to the leaders down the lane and use one nice move to roll by.
6-Rock Diamonds N (3-1)-Has been cashing checks and should have a good chance of landing on the point. George Brennan will be out and rolling when the wings fold. Chances for a win go way up if on the lead at the top of stretch.
Race 12 (10:25 PM EST)
4-Ultimaroca (7/2)-Going with 2 horses that step-up after winning their last start. This Gillis trainee went gate to wire at even money last week. Scott Zeron worked that trip and could look to do the same here.
6-Whats Stanley Got A (9/2)-The veteran is off to a slow start this year. But last time left from post 8 and landed in the pocket. That trip turned into its 1st win on an-off track. The 10-year-old has only 6 starts on a wet surface. Might be up to facing better, gets post relief and should offer a square price.
$2.00 Late Pick 4
2/4,7/1,3,6/4,6
Total Bet=$24
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