Free Pacific Classic 2020 PPs now available

All eyes were on Maximum Security when he made his debut for trainer Bob Baffert in the San Diego Handicap (G2) as everyone wondered if he could continue the stellar form he showed in the Jason Servis barn.

The answer was a bit inconclusive. On one hand, the champion dug in deep to win while probably not 100% cranked up off a layoff. On the other hand, he was all out to beat a field that was subpar compared to the ones he was previously handling with ease.

Now a new question arises for handicappers to analyze heading into the 1 1/4-miles Pacific Classic (G1). Will he improve second off a layoff while fully tuned up or did that big effort off a layoff take too much out of him?

We can get a better gauge on his competitors to determine if he will need to be at his best to win by looking at the free past performances from our friends at Brisnet.

 Those looking to defeat Maximum Security should   first take a closer look at Brisnet's Best Speed at   Distance Ratings. Higher Power towers over his   rivals at a mile and a quarter based on the strength of his romping win in last year's Pacific Classic. While it does seem that Higher Power may not be in as good of form as he was last year, his love for the distance can not be ignored. Aside from his win in the 2019 Pacific Classic, he ran 2nd to Improbable in the 2020 Gold Cup and was third in the 2019 Breeders' Cup Classic, both at the distance.

Higher Power has a lot of ground to make up on Maximum Security based on the San Diego, but his backers will hope the added distance is an equalizer.

Maximum Security has had only one try at the distance. He famously crossed the finish line first in the 2019 Kentucky Derby before being disqualified. Though his number at the distance is low comparatively speaking, it certainly seems like the distance should be no problem.

Midcourt ran a fantastic race to almost defeat Maximum Security in the San Diego and he splits Higher Power and Maximum Security in the Distance Rankings. The San Diego felt like Midcourt's best chance to beat Maximum Security, however; and though his number is high at the distance on paper, his two races at one mile and a quarter have frankly been disappointing visually.

 South American invader Mirinaque seems a bit   outclassed for his U.S. debut and by looking at the   Prime Power Rankings to the left, it seems Sharp   Samurai, who would have to improve over a surface he is likely not best over, and Dark Vader are not quite at this level.

All signs point to Maximum Security if he is anywhere near his best, but Higher Power looks like the clear cut alternative should the favorite falter.

Take a closer look at the Pacific Classic PPs below, with the option to go full screen in the lower right corner of the window. Visit our free past performances page to view more coast-to-coast free stakes PPs.

2020 Pacific Classic PPs