Breeders’ Cup 2022: Fair odds, preview of $2 million Sprint
Last year’s beaten favorite in the Breeders’ Cup Sprint, Jackie’s Warrior, had looked invincible this year. That was until Cody’s Wish got the better of last year’s champion sprint male in the Forego Stakes last out.
However, the impact of that loss should be minimal on Sprint betting this year for a few reasons. Cody’s Wish is likelier for the Dirt Mile. The Forego was at seven furlongs, and this is at six, where Jackie’s Warrior’s lone loss came in the aforementioned 2021 Sprint at Del Mar. And there appears to be very little pace signed on this year.
In one international market Jackie’s Warrior is 3-2, which is likely pretty alluring to fans of the Steve Asmussen trainee considering he’s been 1-2 or less in 7 of his 9 starts. From a handicapping angle, though, he really is a chance at lone speed in a Sprint, which feels insane to think about, but a lot of gas is pointing to the Dirt Mile instead.
Jackie’s Warrior’s biggest threat might not come from a Dirt Mile contender but a Filly & Mare Sprint contender. Kimari absolutely stacks up against this group and gets three pounds for being the fairer sex. She can carry her speed and has the look of a value player, given the money Jackie’s Warrior typically takes.
| BC Sprint | Ed’s line | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Jackie’s Warrior | 9-5 | Last year’s beaten favorite has only 1 hiccup this year. |
| Kimari | 7-2 | 3-lb. weight allowance would be huge for fast filly. |
| American Theorem | 5-1 | 2 big numbers into this, but layoff is concerning. |
| Flash of Mischief | 15-1 | Crazy fast number last out; overlooked because of connections. |
| Super Ocho | 25-1 | Number power lacks, but some gritty efforts. |
| Elite Power | 25-1 | Very likely to be overbet off last-out win. |
| Willy Boi | 25-1 | Sneaky long-shot play based on best. Jockey change? |
| C Z Rocket | 30-1 | Known name, but just isn’t fast enough anymore. |
| Manny Wah | 40-1 | Trainer won ’21 Sprint; no race competes with top contenders. |
| Long Range Toddy | 50-1 | Like others in here; extremely pace compromised. |