Big Kentucky Derby prep race with a number of solid contenders in here. International Star is looking to become the champ of the Fair Grounds while entertaining a number of old foes and newbies that can take it to him.
Stanford: Lightly raced, and he'll definitely add some speed to the ticket. His two entries while stepping up in class are tough to overlook as he was well beaten as a favorite and smoked at Saratoga last year. Solid breeding and the connections of Pletcher and Geroux are appealing, but I can't bite on this one.
Mr. Z: Gotta love this horse. Gives it up every single time. However, distance is a problem for this one, and he now stretches out to his lifetime furthest route. I'll put on the bottom of Tris and Supers.
Defondo: Struggling to like anything about this entry.
Fusiachi Flame: Fu-peg on top with Leestown on the bottom? And in Louisiana? Yeah, his numbers don't stack up, and he looks like a no chancer on the form, but..., the home track and all? Yeah, what the heck am I thinking. Pass.
A Day in Paradise: Major step up in class, but this one is climbing the ladder and is only making his second start of the 2015 season. Recent works show he may be ready for a big one and Larry Jones and Kerwin Clark are a very nice combination at a likely price.
War Story: As I stated in the Risen Star, a lot of people like this colt. He disappointed a bit in that one, but still has room for improvement. Distance shouldn't be a problem. Serious contender.
Keen Ice: Closed well in the Risen Star, but it wasn't that great. An early "wise guy" Derby horse needs more distance unless he can be closer early. Can't toss from exotics, but will toss from winning.
St Joe Bay: Folded as lone speed in his last 4 races and now steps up in distance to 9 panels? 6 and 7 furlong races are his calling. Not this one.
International Star: Should be dead chalk, and deservedly so. Classic Derby stalking style on board and his maturity into 2015 has been solid. Keeps getting better, but can be beat. Looks like he'll get another perfect setup with speed to close upon.
WP:
Haven't figured out the rest. But
are all I can see right now.
