Laurel play: Sprint finale is Just the Thing to make your day

Here is hoping that Laurel Park saved the best for last on Saturday.

Maybe not the best race quality of horse wise, as the 11th of 11 races is just your run-of-the-mill $10,000-$12,500 claimer for fillies who have never won two races lifetime. But, there is a value opportunity here, as the morning line seems to think Just The Thing will be overlooked as the 4-to-1 third choice.

Just the Thing tried tougher last out, pressing the pace before taking the lead and ultimately fading. Now she not only returns to friendlier confines but does so at a shorter trip, 5 1/2 furlongs. I think it will be to her liking.

The speediest filly of this octet, Perfect Pink, is drawn on the rail just to our top pick's inside. Given that Just the Thing has some early zip as well, pursuers will either have to go wide or be stuck behind horses until the stretch. This is a tactical advantage for Just the Thing as well.

I am not going to overthink this one. At her 4-to-1 morning line price, Just the Thing is worth a win bet.

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