Friday's best bet: Aloha West steps out in Phoenix
Friday’s 8th race from Keeneland is the Grade 2 Phoenix Stakes for three-year-olds and up dashing six furlongs on the main track (Post Time 5:10 p.m. EDT).
#5 ALOHA WEST (3-1) exits back-to-back dirt sprint wins and his speed ratings really jumped up in those victories. He should be running in the stretch under Jose Ortiz. There are multiple early-pressing types entered in this race, and he might get a good setup if they duel up front.
#3 Endorsed (6-1) is one of those Mike Maker reclamation projects, and I would not be surprised if he become a stakes winner. After getting claimed for $100k, he rallied for the place in a $275k stakes affair at this distance under the Twin Spires Sept. 18. His stablemate #6 Special Reserve (9-5) is sharp, fresh, and consistent. The early-pressing type exits a close 2nd in the Alfred G. Vanderbilt (G1) at Saratoga, and Joel Rosario chose him over Aloha West.
#2 Mucho (6-1) has turned into a decent dirt sprinter in the non-graded ranks. The early-pressing type is most effective at this distance but is winless in three local attempts.
#4 Just Might (9-2) has won four straight non-graded stakes races for Michelle Lovell. The razor sharp early-pressing type should be right there turning for home.
#7 Sir Alfred James (9-2) exits a big front running victory at Churchill Downs, and Norm Cash claimed him for $62.5k that day. He drew outside the other speed and should make his presence felt throughout.
#1 Quick Tempo (20-1) should impact the pace from the rail. In the Rumson Stakes at five panels Sept. 11, he stalked and missed by a neck. He frequently sets a quick tempo.
Get my Expert Santa Anita Park picks for today’s races
Wagers:
#5 to Win
Exacta 5/3-6
Exacta 3-6/5
Trifecta 5-6/ALL/3
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