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NHL Grand Salami - January

The Grand Salami in pro hockey is decided by adding up all the goals scored in every game scheduled for that particular day. You can wager on 'over' or 'under' the Grand Salami total. The total is set by adding up all listed 'over/under' odds for each game on that particular day.

Note: The Grand Salami will have no action if any game is suspended or cancelled before the regulation time of three twenty minute periods. Also, regardless of the number of goals scored during the shoot out portion of the overtime, the final scored recorded for the game will give the winning team on more goal than its opponent based on the score at the end of regulation time.

*The majority of sportsbooks do not put out a total on the Grand Salami when there is only one game on the card. For tracking purposes, we will continue to show the 'over/under' for goals and combined goals scored on days with just one game.

NHL GRAND SALAMI

Date No. of Games Total Goals Combined Goals Scored Result
1/1 2 10.5 10 UNDER
1/2 8 43 37 UNDER
1/3 10 52.5 74 OVER
1/4 7 37 46 OVER
1/5 1 5 5 PUSH
1/6 10 55.5 51 UNDER
1/7 4 22 23 OVER
1/8 10 55.5 58 OVER
1/9 5 26.5 33 OVER
1/10 11 58 58 PUSH
1/11 3 16 20 OVER
1/12 3 17.5 15 UNDER
1/13 10 54.5 64 OVER
1/14 4 21.5 18 UNDER
1/15 10 55.5 47 UNDER
1/16 6 32 34 OVER
1/17 12 64.5 69 OVER
1/18 4 21.5 33 OVER
1/19 7 37.5 37 UNDER
1/20 8 45.5 47 OVER
1/21 6 33.5 36 OVER
1/22 No games scheduled/All-Star break
1/23 No games scheduled/All-Star break
1/24 No games scheduled/All-Star break
1/25 No games scheduled/All-Star break
1/26 No games scheduled/All-Star break
1/27 11 61.5 66 OVER
1/28 3 16.5 14 UNDER
1/29 11 59.5 63 OVER
1/30 5 26 23 UNDER
1/31 11 - - -

NHL Preview: Oilers (13-27) at Flames (26-20)

Date: January 31, 2015 10:00 PM EDT

Calgary coach Bob Hartley believes he can better prepare his club for a run at the postseason if he keeps it focused on achieving short-term goals.

Winning more at home probably should be on the list.

The Flames look to avoid a fifth defeat in six home games by winning a sixth straight meeting with the Edmonton Oilers on Saturday night.

Hartley breaks down the season in seven-game segments, and Calgary (26-20-3) has bought into the notion that it encourages an playoff mentality as it heads into segment No. 8.

It went 5-2-0 in the previous stretch after falling 1-0 to Minnesota on Thursday and holds the final Western Conference wild-card spot by one point ahead of Los Angeles.

"We always look at seven games," Hartley told the team's official website. "Does it have an effect on the players? I don't really know. I think so. It seems to be working well. It keeps the guys fresh."

Calgary will be playing the third in a seven-game stretch at home, where it has won just four of the last 11 after an 8-3-2 start.

Center Paul Byron will try to help the Flames break out of that slump while ending his own. Byron hasn't scored in 28 games since netting a goal Nov. 20 against Chicago.

"The key is just trying to take the positive out of it and try not to mentally take myself down," Byron said. "If you think you're not going to score you're not. I think it's just a matter of time before one of them finally goes in."

He isn't putting his own issues ahead of the club, though.

"Your goal is to win four and you win the (segment)," Byron said. "For us, we've had the playoff mentality since Day 1. It's a dogfight right now and we're in playoff mode. We just have to go out there and win as many seven-game series as we can."

Fellow center Joe Colborne has keyed Calgary's success against Oilers (13-27-9) this season. He had three assists in a 5-2 win Oct. 9, scored in a 4-1 win Dec. 27 and netted two goals in a 4-3 overtime victory Dec. 31.

Edmonton coach Todd Nelson believes the Flames will be seeing a rejuvenated opponent this time around. The Oilers have won three of four after beating Buffalo 3-2 on Thursday behind a goal and two assists from Anton Lander.

"Every day we're trying to make ourselves better and I think we're improving in certain aspects," Nelson told the team's official website. "We're ready to try to keep things going. We're on a bit of a run here, collected a few points over the last four or five games. It's a good test for our hockey team."

There may be some tension between these clubs stemming from the most recent meeting. Edmonton defenseman Keith Aulie received a two-game suspension for hitting Matt Stajan in the head in the final minute of the first period.

Aulie will suit up for the first time since that contest.

"He plays an aggressive style," Nelson said. "That's what got him here to the (NHL), and that's what's going to keep him here."

Winger Taylor Hall, who has missed the last two games with a bone bruise in his left leg, didn't practice Friday but is expected to travel to Calgary and could play.

Ben Scrivens ended a three-start skid by making 18 saves against the Sabres and could be in net for the Oilers. The Flames may counter with Jonas Hiller, who is 10-2-1 with a 1.76 goals-against average in his last 13 against Edmonton.

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Pompano Park

Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.


Race 7 - Post: 9:18 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 85 - Purse:$7500 - NON-WINNERS $3,251 LAST 5 STARTS OR $601


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 4 FLAK JACKET 4/1


# 3 WHO'S YOUR MADDY 3/1


# 6 ONE BAD SHOT 12/1


If you want a really strong play here, feast your eyes on FLAK JACKET. Overall statistics look great. Can't throw him out of the picture. Should be in the hunt again for this one, looking to add to that already high lifetime winning figure. WHO'S YOUR MADDY - Heads into this gathering with really strong TrackMaster class figures in relationship to the pack - worth a look. Loved this gelding's last race. Ran a solid 89 TrackMaster SR. Major player. ONE BAD SHOT - The brain trust has Hennessey on its list of drivers who are hot as a pistol of late. Last 30 days win pct is stellar. Talk about a dynamic duo, Hennessey and Plouffe have some of the best driver/trainer figures at the track.

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Yonkers Raceway

Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.


Race 1 - Post: 7:10 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 91 - Purse:$16000 - NON-WINNERS OF $12,000 IN LAST 6 STARTS WINNERS OVER $120,000 IN 2014/15 NOT ELIGIBLE.


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 6 MYSTICAL WALTER 5/2


# 1 SAM'S ESCAPE 2/1


# 7 MOJO TERROR 6/1


If you want a nice play in this one, feast your eyes on MYSTICAL WALTER. We can't pass on this gelding given one of the most respectable driver-conditioner stats around. Don't let a entrant with such a strong winning rate like this be overlooked. SAM'S ESCAPE - When starting from the 1 hole, a much higher than average win percentage has resulted. Has the look of a profitable play, averaging a nifty 95 speed figure. MOJO TERROR - The trainer Lewis has a special way with this gelding, regularly cashing in their races. With a solid driver, who has won at a very good 21 percent rate this last month, this has to be one of the best selections.

At the Gate - Saturday
By Mike Dempsey

We have plenty of stakes action at Tampa Bay Downs and Santa Anita on Saturday, and I spent Friday handicapping the two tracks and bypassing on the frozen tundra known as Aqueduct.

The temperature at post time today at Aqueduct will be 21 degrees and with the wind blowing at 20 miles per hour the wind chill factor will be in single digits, there is a possibility the card could be scrapped.

The weather will be perfect in Tampa and Arcadia, and we have some very good betting races including the $250,000 Sam F. Davis (G3) at Tampa Bay Downs.

The race has not been a Derby points race the past two years, possibly because of a dispute between Churchill Downs and Tampa Bay Downs over simulcasting. The race serves as a prep for the $400,000 Tampa Bay Derby (G2) on March 7, which is a points race for the Run for the Roses.

I am going with Ami’s Flatter (9-2) who was a good second in the Mucho Macho Man Stakes at Gulfstream Park on Jan. 3 and still looks as if he has some upside. In a field of 12 we should get some value as well.

Trainer Todd Pletcher has won the Sam F. Davis five times in the last nine years and sends out an uncoupled entry in Royal Son and G Five.

The likely favorite will be Ocean Knight, who was a good-looking maiden winner in his debut at Aqueduct on Dec. 31 for trainer Kiaran McLaughlin.

The $150,000 Endevour (G3) drew a field of 14 fillies and mares that will go 1 1/16 miles on the turf. The other stake on the card is the $100,000 Suncoast which drew a full field of 10 along with one also-eligible.

There are three stakes on the card at Santa Anita including the $300,000 Las Virgenes (G1) for three-year-old fillies. Trainer Jerry Hollendorfer entered five fillies, but Glory will scratch, so he will run four. Bob Baffert has a duo and as you can see below, they are my top two choices.

The co-features on the card are the $200,000 Arcadia (G2) and the $200,000 Palos Verdes (G2).


Today’s Featured Race of the Day from Tampa Bay Downs:

Tam Race 11 The Sam F. Davis G3 (5:20 ET)
3 Ami's Flatter 9-2
11 Ocean Knight 5-2
1 Catalina Red 4-1
2 Royal Son 8-1

Analysis: Ami's Flatter stalked the early pace and finished up well for the runner up spot last out in his stakes debut in the Mucho Macho man. The winner of the race was Bluegrass Singer, who came back to run third in the Holy Bull (G2) in his next outing last Saturday at Gulfstream Park. The colt was making his first start on dirt after breaking his maiden in his debut going seven furlongs on poly at Woodbine. He has plenty of pedigree for his first trip around two turns, by Flatter out of a Victory Gallop mare.

Ocean Knight was a very impressive maiden winner in his debut going six furlongs on the inner track. The colt stalked the early pace and drew away in the stretch with plenty left in the tank. The colt earned the top last out speed fig in the effort. He should get better as he gets more ground. He was a $320,000 Ocala purchase by Curlin and the first foal to race out of a Stormy Atlantic mare. The Kiaran McLaughlin barn is 16% winners moving runners form sprint to route. The main knocks are the likely short price and the outside draw with a short run to the first turn.

Catalina Red is the most accomplished runner in the field and comes into the race off back-to-back stakes winners in the Inaugural and Pasco, both over the main track here. The colt looks as if he should be able his first trip going long on the main track. He is by Munnings out of the stakes placed Lovely Dream ($148,329) who won going long.

Wagering
WIN: #3 to win at 7-2 or better.
EX: 3,11 / 1,2,3,11
TRI: 3,11 / 1,2,3,11 / 1,2,3,7,11

Today’s Featured Race of the Day from Santa Anita:

SA Race 8 The Las Virgenes G1 (4:00 PT)
7 Callback 4-1
2 Maybellene 3-1
6 Majestic Presence 7-2
10 Light the City 6-1

Analysis: Callback is one of two in here sent out by the Baffert barn while Hollendorfer has five entered with four to start (Glory will scratch). Our top pick stretches out to a mile off a good second in the Santa Ynez (G2) last out in her first start against winners. She was nearly five lengths clear of the rest of the field in the effort. By Street Sense out of a Forest Wildcat mare, who is bred to handle the extra ground. The barn is 28% winners (with a +ROI) moving runners from sprint to route.

Maybellene is also sent out by Baffert. The filly chased the early ape and finished gamely, beaten just 3/4 of a length in the Starlet (G1) at Los Al. She has won at a mile switch including beating first level optional claimers here at the distance back in October. She faces an easier group here as she ran behind take Charge Brandi and Feathered last out.

Wagering
WIN: #7 to win at 3-1 or better.
EX: 2,7 / 2,6,7,10
TRI: 2,7 / 2,6,7,10 / 2,4,6,7,10

Good luck today!

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Aqueduct

Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.


Race 9 - Maiden Claiming - 6.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $31000 Class Rating: 59

INNER DIRT FOR MAIDENS, THREE YEARS OLD FOALED IN NEW YORK STATE AND APPROVED BY THE NEW YORK STATE-BRED REGISTRY. WEIGHT, 120 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $25,000



RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 5 THE PREZ 10/1


# 4 EL VIEJO VERDE 6/1


# 3 FIT TO KEEP 5/1


THE PREZ figures to be the bet in here and is a solid value bet given the line. Could best this field here, showing competitive figures of late. Meeting a much less demanding lot than last time out. Is a solid contender - given the 51 speed figure from his most recent race. EL VIEJO VERDE - Will almost certainly go to the lead and might never look back. The Equibase speed fig of 56 from his latest race looks decent in here. FIT TO KEEP - Will probably compete very well in the early speed clash which bodes well with this field. Have to take a chance on this gelding with the reliable earnings per start in dirt sprint races.

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Gulfstream

Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.


Race 10 - Maiden Special Weight - 8.5f on the Turf. Purse: $45000 Class Rating: 94

FOR MAIDENS, FOUR YEARS OLD AND UPWARD. WEIGHT, 123 LBS.



RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 9 ARTIE CRASHER 10/1


# 11 HEREDITARY 3/1


# 5 UPDRAFT 4/1


ARTIE CRASHER is my selection particularly if the morning line of 10/1 holds. Is tough not to look at based on Equibase Speed Figures which have been very strong - 84 avg - of late. Has run solidly when racing a turf route race. HEREDITARY - This equine enters today's contest with second time Lasix. Well above average win rate at this distance/surface. UPDRAFT - He has posted competitive figures under today's conditions and will most likely fare well against this group of horses in this race. If you examine closely, this entrant has some longshot potential.

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Charles Town - Race #4 - Post: 8:23pm - Maiden Claiming - 6.5 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $13,000 Class Rating: 53

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#5 SHADOWS OF LOVE (ML=4/1)
#6 COURAGEOUS LINC (ML=6/1)


SHADOWS OF LOVE - Nice return on investment for this jockey and conditioner duo. Rosario is back up for another race today after riding aboard this horse for the first try on Jan 16th and ought to know the ropes to this one a little better. Taking a trip down the class scale; has the class ability to make his presence felt. Sub-par performance last time around the track at Charles Town was due to the off-going (he ran fifth). Should do better right here in this race with the benefit of a fast track. This gelding notched a nice fig of 51 in his last event. That speed rating should be high enough to triumph this time around. COURAGEOUS LINC - I like that recent contest on Jan 17th at Charles Town where he finished fourth. This equine didn't run well in the mud in his last race around the track at Charles Town. You may want to overlook that showing. This colt is tops in earnings per start. Take a long look at this animal in the paddock.

Vulnerable Contenders: #8 DARGLE (ML=3/1), #10 SAVOY SPECIAL (ML=7/2),

DARGLE - Not likely for this entrant to make an impact with no recent success in a short distance affair. This mount showed very liitle last time out of the box finishing sixth. Don't expect any betterment in today's race. SAVOY SPECIAL - Really don't think the most recent fig was obtained legitimately. The wet conditions may have lead to such a high rating. Can't bet on this steed in today's sprint of 6 1/2 furlongs. Hasn't even finished in the money in a sprint clash recently.

Top HatGUEST COMMENTARY: Winston - COURAGEOUS LINC - The Lasix should help this thoroughbred. I'll bet on this kind most anytime.



STRAIGHT WAGERS:
#5 SHADOWS OF LOVE is going to be the play if we are getting 3/2 or better

EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [5,6]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Skip

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
Pass

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Fair Grounds - Race #2 - Post: 1:56pm - Maiden Claiming - 5.5 furlongs on the Turf. Purse: $19,000 Class Rating: 69

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#8 WILD PARIS (ML=8/1)
#3 ACQUAROSSA (ML=4/1)


WILD PARIS - This horse has recorded the best recent turf speed rating at the distance & surface. This stretch runner looks to be the animal to make a move near the wire. I think that a sprinter coming off a layoff will usually run her best in the 3rd or 4th start back. ACQUAROSSA - Earnings per race is something that I feel can be a most important factor. This entrant is ranked at the top in this bunch. The trainer is switching this pony to the turf for a reason. Let's take a shot on this race horse.

Vulnerable Contenders: #2 AFTERMARKETSPOILER (ML=7/2), #1 SAVING SADIE (ML=4/1), #6 C ISLANDSURPRISE (ML=9/2),

AFTERMARKETSPOILER - I find it hard to back any horse in a sprint race if she hasn't finished in the money in a sprint in the last two months. Pedestrian speed figure last time around the track at Fair Grounds at 1 mile. Don't think this mount will improve too much in today's race. SAVING SADIE - This filly hasn't been showing me anything positive in the last two races. I find it hard to wager on this less than sharp equine this time around. Make her show you something in a sprint race before you bet on her in a race of 5 1/2 furlongs. Somewhat easily forgotten speed rating last race out at Fair Grounds at 5 1/2 furlongs. Don't believe this mount will improve too much in today's race. C ISLANDSURPRISE - Don't think this pony is worth 9/2 in this race.

Top HatGUEST COMMENTARY: Winston - WILD PARIS - The conditioner is bringing this horse right back after the event on January 24th. Has a great chance today.



STRAIGHT WAGERS:
#8 WILD PARIS to win at post-time odds of 9/5 or better

EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [3,8]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
8 with 3 with [1,6,7] Total Cost: $3

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
None

Balmoral: Saturday 1/31 Analysis
By Jeremey Day

DRF HARNESS

Race 9 - $15,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

Best Bet (1 - 2 / $3.00): MAYFAIR SOPHIE (5th)

Spot Play: BET ON HIM (6th)


Race 1

(4) TREAT FOR MY SWEET was starting to race more consistently before the break and should offer a fair price in an evenly matched race. (9) SANDCASTLE GIRL mare is one of few in the field you can count on to be ready stamina-wise. (2) MIRIAM'S JET owns a decent burst of speed when timed right.

Race 2

(5) MARZY BEARZY rarely wins but has been competitive against much tougher. (2) VAL'S WAY mare owns a good brush and should be close turning for home. (8) EARTHLY DESIRE needs a good setup but is one of few threats in the race.

Race 3

(6) RHOMBUS is very tough to gauge having been off over a month. The pacer is capable of a big mile if ready. (1a) PARK LANE HOTSHOT veteran pacer just missed against similar last start and should be ready despite a short layoff. (1) EXTRAVAGANT ART will likely be in line for a decent trip up close.

Race 4

In wide open race on paper (5) WINGS has been on a roll for quite some time and looks to be getting better. (6) STATE STREET LIZ made the most money in the field last year by far and will likely be blasting for position early. (3) SEEYOUATTHEFINISH comes into the race off a big effort against the same bunch and will probably offer value.

Race 5

(8) MAYFAIR SOPHOIE comes off an impressive qualifier after a few breaks. If the trotting mare minds her manners she will be tough to beat. (5) CARDINAL WIND also put in a good qualifier after a really long layoff. The 4-year-old could need a start but faces a field full of question marks. (1a) POWERFUL COMMANDER five-year-old stallion owns ability but needs a smooth trip for a piece.

Race 6

(10) BET ON HIM will offer a huge price and has not been at this level in quite some time. The pacer owns one good move when timed right and could be sitting on a good effort. (3) JO JO SPUR comes into the race off a layoff but gets sent out for a trainer capable of popping big prices. (5) CAMWISER will be tough to keep off the board with an easy early lead.

Race 7

(6) JM'S DUKEOFDELIGHT gets a big driver change and owns some ability. (10) SPEED RACER just beat similar but needs to overcome the toughest post. (7) HERE'S TOOTSIE looked to have turned a corner before the break; threat.

Race 8

(6) JUSTICE JET four-year-old is a very nice trotter and should be considered the horse to beat despite the provisional driver. (7) FOX VALLEY VETO had an amazing sophomore year and showed signs of being able to step up against open company. (4) SURCLASSER gelding isn't the most consistent but can really kick home with a good setup.

Race 9

(5) WASHINGTON HANOVER could be one of few in the race ready to pace a big mile after a short layoff. (3) ALEQUASH HOTSPUR was the driver's choice of three and has recently stepped his game up. (4) TOUCH THE ROCK owns all the back class but is coming off a year layoff and likely needs a start.

Race 10

(7) HOT STREAK HANOVER has been super for the new connections and could sweep past late at a price. (1) A J GET'S THE MONEY also comes into the race sharp and will be firing early. (6) BELL VALLEY BILL needs a fast pace to close into for his best chance; command a price.

Race 11

(4) FIRSTCLASSALLTHEWAY was the driver's choice and has been racing gamely against tough competition. (10) FASHION DELIGHT owns a class edge on most of the field and is one of few threats to the top choice. (6) BIG BRAD five-year-old stallion faces tougher and is best used underneath.

Race 12

(9) MOLLY GO LIGHTLY mare has beaten much better and just needs to work out a smooth trip from a tough post. (6) LOVE THIS PLACE mare is capable against this bunch but was has lacked stamina late when it matters most. (10) FOX VALLEY SHIVER will offer a big price and could hit the ticket with some racing luck.

Woodbine Harness: Saturday 1/31 Analysis
By Garnet Barnsdale

DRF HARNESS

Race 4 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

EARLY $1 PICK 4:

2,3,10 / 4,6,8 / 1,3,5 / 4,6 = $54

MEET STATS: 25 - 73 / $153.90 BEST BETS: 2 - 7 / $13.20 SPOT PLAYS: 2 - 7 / $28.40

Best Bet: RESISTANCE FUTILE (9th)

Spot Play: PAPER BACKED LINDY (2nd)


Race 1

(6) URBANA BAYAMA has strung together two excellent efforts showing good speed both early and late. He should be prominent throughout again. (2) PUSH BACK was aggressively driven to a blowout win by Allard last Saturday but these are a bit tougher and he will need more late speed. (3) NIRVANA SEELSTER faces easier but missed a week and always seems to get shuffled; mixed signals.

Race 2

(2) PAPER BACKED LINDY raced Monday night vs. tougher and showed little from an outer post. A return to the form displayed in his penultimate race would be no surprise here. (1) EW FISHER has reeled off three straight easy wins since shipping north and is likely to be a big chalk here; the one to overhaul. (7) SLIP INTO GLIDE takes a big drop into a field he should be able to handle but he's missed some time and goes for an ice-cold barn. Beware taking a short price on the win end here.

Race 3

This is a competitive but compact Preferred group. We'll give top call to (4) NICKLE BAG who went a crazy-good overland mile last out but fell just short to one that crafted a perfect trip. (1) CAMAES FELLOW was pushed to a much faster 3/4 than normal by the choice and faltered as a result. You know where he's heading when the gate pulls away; must be chased down. (3) FRANKIES DRAGON made the most of a pocket journey and rewarded his many backers. A repeat is within his scope. (6) MUSSELSFROMBRUSSELS rallied smartly to win a class lower and has a recency edge on the ones above. He needs some battling to have a chance though, which is hard to predict in a short field.

Race 4

Despite his far outer post, the pace shape of this race seems to fall right into (10) I SCOOT SAM's wheelhouse; expecting another swoop late. (2) UNIQUE BARAN was 2 for 2 off the claim for Stewart but was taken by Blake MacIntosh Monday night and he wheels him right back quickly in this higher class. He has to be on pick 4 tickets in his current form. (3) SPARTACUS JIMA debuts with Lasix for Auciello off a layoff. He can be ready to do some damage.

Race 5

(6) SIX BAX was called to win last Saturday but had to trot in 27 1/5 in his third 1/4 just to get into contention which took its toll. This one is ready to win but needs a good steer. (8) JUST CALL ME LADY came with a big rush first time off the claim and was gaining rapidly at the wire. She has really picked it up the past month and is a solid contender again. (4) LIMITLESS shipped in from Dover and bossed a much weaker group. These are tougher - especially the top two.

Race 6

(1) ALEXAS JACKPOT was stung to the tune of 26 3.5 while parked in the third 1/4 last week chasing an unbeatable winner taking a big edge. He gets top call here from the rail. (3) MACHAL JORDAN exits the same heat and was cooked first-over. These look a bit easier. (5) WORLD AWAY drops back to a class where he is in the mix and could very well carve himself out a winning pocket trip here.

Race 7

Several that raced Monday return quickly in this highly-competitive dash. We'll give the edge to (4) FORK who showed nice closing power considering he had missed a month. The quickback has to help this one and he's beaten better in the past. (6) NORTHERN VICTORY was at the mercy of a leader that stole a pedestrian third 1/4 and he still almost got up on the inside. He's in top form now and is the main threat. (8) WATKINS came barreling up the inside late on a night where his trainer was winning everything. He's sharp now and shouldn't be dismissed too easily.

Race 8

(5) GOLDSTAR BADLANDS' first start over Woodbine was pretty good as he camped out at the back but managed to pass half the field in the lane. We'll give him top call to best a field of underachievers. (2) ROCK ME AMASTREOUS raced well enough in this class from the 10-hole two back to take this; the main danger. (6) MONTE CHRISTO is sure to take big money as he always does and almost just as sure to be a beaten favorite again.

Race 9

(1) RESISTANCE FUTILE raced great from the 10-hole last time losing narrowly to two dropping from the Preferred. Top call here. (6) JOSHUA MY BOY also had the misfortune of facing one dropping from the top class that blew the field away. He has been razor-sharp in two starts off the claim for Puddy. (3) GD AIRLINER had no shot of showing his late foot the way his dash played out. He could be powering up here late.

Race 10

(2) HES A SENSATION gets the call to repeat here stepping slightly up in class. There should be enough early pace and decent flow to set up his charge. (6) TOUCH OF LIGHTNING keeps outperforming his odds and should get a piece of this at another decent quote on the tote. (3) LEAFS AND WINGS got trapped in last week and was motoring noticeably late. Keep him on your pick 4 tickets. (4) JOLT OF WHISKEY has stepped up his late speed in his last couple and could hit the vertical wagers here at a monster price. (7) ROAR looks obvious on paper but the 28-day break in action is concerning. We'll try to beat him.

Meadowlands: Saturday 1/31 Analysis
By Derick Giwner

DRF HARNESS

Race 1 - $30,000 Guaranteed Pick Five Pool

Race 3 - $25,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

Race 7 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

MEET STATS: 74 - 303 / $430.60 BEST BETS: 9 - 22 / $33.20

Best Bet: NATIONAL SEELSTER (2nd)

Spot Play: SPENDER HANOVER (10th)


Race 1

(6) WHY DON'T YOU STAY rallied nicely at 8-1 to be second best last time. You won't get that sweet of a price this week. (3) SMART ROKKER was done in by a bad trip in his most recent race; clear player. (1) WESTERN COLE is back at the Meadowlands at a reduced level.

Race 2

(9) NATIONAL SEELSTER couldn't have been more impressive in his two qualifying races. Driver Andy Miller was just sitting on the 3-year-old colt waiting for the stretch to unleash him. The outside post doesn't help, but I see some talent here. (2) BIG CITY JEWEL displayed some ability as a 3-year-old but hasn't raced since June; barn change. (3) SHANE ADAM could have been a contender if not for the break last time. I'm not willing to write him off yet. (4) SHADOW RECRUIT moves into the Burke barn.

Race 3

(7) THAT'S MY OPINION has geared up for his 2015 debut with a pair of decent qualifiers. This guy probably has the most talent in the field. (1) BETTOR BELIEVE IT had no chance of closing into slow fractions in the Escort final. (8) FRITZIE PIC UP MAN is back at the Meadowlands off a confidence building win.

Race 4

(10) IDEAL MAGIC hasn't been able to get over the top in this C-1 level , but this is clearly an inferior group than what he has faced. (9) COLOSSAL has enough early speed and form to make his presence felt. (2) RELENTLESS G steps up while clearly sharp. (1) TEX chased a pretty good one in his return qualifier.

Race 5

(4) MIGHTY YOUNG JOE made a big move to get into contention at Yonkers last time, but coming from eighth at the half and sustaining your move is no easy task on a half-mile track. Veteran 12-year-old returns to the Meadowlands at the basement condition and should be formidable. (7) HARE CRAFT ships in from Ohio for a hot barn while in form. It is hard to believe he is making the eight hour ship for nothing. (2) IAM BONASERA can bust out with a big mile at any time and he gets more class relief tonight.

Race 6

(8) ULTIMATE BEACHBOY was a sharp second versus one of the hottest horses around in Rockeyed Optimist last time. Classy 5-year-old should be tighter in his second start since October. (2) ROCKIN WIZARD paced home willingly with no shot last week. He can be a player with a decent trip. (5) ODDS ON EQUULEUS drops down and becomes very dangerous. (6) BLATANTLY BEST couldn't be in better form.

Race 7

(7) K-LEES SHAKENBAKE had pace while in traffic last week and now he gets Zeron back in the bike. Zeron steered this gelding to a career best 1:49 3/5 mile back in December. (6) JOURNEYMAN has certainly looked to be worth the money after winning two of three starts since moving to the Burke barn; qualifier was good. (10) DIAL OR NODIAL has plenty of class but drew worst.

Race 8

(2) ABELARD HANOVER has looked absolutely awful in his last two starts, but when you look at this field, who are you really in love with on the win end? (9) MOONLIGHT RANSOM looks like a cinch to hit the board. Those 11 seconds versus three wins in his last 32 starts make him risky on top. (7) ROLL'EM UP is back at the Meadowlands at a reduced level and now gets Tetrick in the bike; using. (4) HUNCHIE adds Gingras after some no chance efforts from outside posts at Yonkers.

Race 9

(2) TOP GEAR needs to step up his game a bit, but the inside post should give Gingras plenty of options. (4) THISDEUCEISWILD could be sitting pretty behind cover in a field loaded with early speed potential. (6) CANE RIDGE is certainly in form as he moves up in class. (10) WINDSONG GORGEOUS knows how to win in this class. If he can somehow work out a trip from the outside, watch out!

Race 10

(5) SPENDER HANOVER flashed early speed and still finished up his mile okay after a three month layoff. Nine-year-old can put up a big mile in this spot. (8) MAGIC TRICKS scored a big upset in this condition three starts back; expecting speed. (3) ROCK STAR seems to be close often enough. Can he get over the top?

Race 11

(7) SALEVSTER STALLION has been racing somewhat evenly against better foes. He should have every chance to perk up on the class drop. (1) SIR MELO'S Z TAM is going to take a boatload of money with Tetrick picking up the drive; clear chance. (3) JETTY has early speed and has been fairly consistent. (8) ROAD UNTRAVELED put in a wake-up effort last week.

Race 12

(6) ASTREOS FLASH gets a decent post to work with this week and can get over the top. (1) EIGHT TEM EOM has three seconds in his last four starts for this claiming tag. (3) MC ATTABOY gets a major driver change to Pierce.

Race 13

(2) DRAGON LORE drops down and adds Gingras; obvious play. (5) STALLONE BLUE CHIP finally picked up his game last time. When right he can put in a nice mile. (8) NEW KIND is back at the level of his last victory. (1) TRAFFIC COP can save ground and get into the lower exotics.

Yonkers: Saturday 1/31 Analysis
By Matt Rose

DRF HARNESS

MEET STATS: 25 - 71 / $121.90 BEST BETS: 4 - 6 / $15.00

Best Bet: FLIPPER J (4th)

Spot Play: HEEZ ORL BLACK N (10th)


Race 1

(1) SAM’S ESCAPE has put in two decent efforts since returning from vacation and he should be prominent throughout from this inside post. (6) MYSTICAL WALTER certainly is the erratic type but he did beat up on lesser two back and his best makes him a serious player. (7) MOJO TERROR closed belatedly from a tough spot in his local return; is this another tough spot tonight?

Race 2

(7) STATION THREEOHSIX was my choice last out versus better and he never threatened while uncovered into a rated pace. Veteran drops in class again and would not be a complete stretch from this spot. (2) DIAMOND COWBOY held for a share off a grinding trip last week and he could be involved here from another good post. (1) TIDEWATER TEDDY doesn’t win often but he lands inside again and should be a part of the action.

Race 3

(3) CITY HALL gets the winning combo of class and post relief in his third return start and the Team Buter gelding faces nothing special here. (5) HE ROCKS THE MOON drops in class off an empty effort and he was a winner at this level four back. (1) MUSTANG MACH N was never involved last week but he should show more tonight.

Race 4

(2) FLIPPER J chased a well-rated favorite last week and couldn’t dent the margin late; this race didn’t appear to come up as strong tonight. (8) O’SUNDLAND was taken back last week and never got involved; we’ve all seen Stalbaum blast a hundred miles an hour from the gate and there may be nothing in his way early. (1) EIGHTEEN has plenty of class and the best draw; tough to exclude.

Race 5

(4) RU READY TO ROCK remains sharp despite last week’s no-chance effort. Godinez trainee can be close enough to strike. (1) SIMPLY BUSINESS has hit the board in six of seven and the trend should continue tonight. (2) CHEYENNE JEFFREY gets needed post relief and should be more involved.

Race 6

(3) MICKEY HANOVER toured the track last out from a tough spot, but his prior two efforts were solid and Dube can get the jump on these from this favorable post. (5) DOCTOR BUTCH returns locally off a solid run at The Meadowlands. (8) TAKE IT BACK TERRY is razor-sharp but he may be done in by the poor post tonight.

Race 7

(2) BJ’S GUY gets some needed class relief and he’s classy enough to take advantage. (3) AMERICAN RAGE is perfect so far in 2015 and the O’Sullivan trainee should be able to handle the class hike. (5) SHADY CITY managed to rally for a small share last week from an impossible spot. Team Stalbaum charge is in career form and he’s becoming one of my favorites.

Race 8

(4) DANCEHALL MISTRESS only has two races in the last seven weeks, but if the Allard trainee is fit she can power home with the best of them. (8) NOT AFRAID is the current King of the Open and the Takter trainee has the early speed to overcome another outside post assignment. (3) COUNT ME IN hung like a chandelier in the late stages last week upon arrival so he’s tough to endorse for the top spot, but he can clearly be used underneath.

Race 9

(4) MACHS BEACH BOY looked much the best last week and was driven accordingly by Lachance. He faces tougher foes tonight but he’s clearly capable of repeating. (1) STATESMAN N came up a touch short in his debut for Burke but it wasn’t the easiest of trips; expecting more tonight. (3) GEORGE JETTISON rarely wins but he’s hit the board in his last five, including flying home last week from the eight hole.

Race 10

(1) HEEZ ORL BLACK N gets a serious test tonight but the Vallee import has looked so good disposing of lesser that I’m inclined to give him a shot here. (3) IRA CHIEF gets needed post relief and he could be on the move early. (5) P H SUPERCAM tightened nicely last week and now gets to drop in class; clearly he should be a big player here but he’s got some good competition.

Race 11

(3) HOORAYFORVACATION raced evenly in his first start in over a month for Garcia-Herrera and he could have more to offer in this evenly-matched event. (2) STRUCK BY LINDY ships from The Meadowlands and the change in scenery could do her good. (8) HERE COMES NUMBERS may be blasting from this spot and he could be trouble if he hits the lead.

Race 12

(2) LIFE UP FRONT is more than capable with these as evidenced by his solid 2014 record; he looks like he’s got as good a shot as any in this tough-to-figure getaway race. (7) EASY AGAIN gets class relief but he’s come up a bit short in his last two. (6) FAMEOUS WESTERN was rebuffed by a sharp rival last out; don’t hold that against him.