Tuesday, June 30, 2026
Sports Gaming Picks - Get Your Picks Now
Home Blog Page 275

Horse Race Preview: Race 9 – Weber City Miss Stakes at Laurel Park

Venue: Laurel Park — Laurel, Maryland

Surface: Dirt Distance: 1 1/16 miles Purse: $150,000 Eligibility: 3‑year‑old Fillies

Scheduled Post Time: 3:51 PM ET

Expected Weather Conditions

No weather data was provided in the sourced material. Inference: Mid‑April in Maryland typically brings mild temperatures (55–70°F). Laurel’s dirt track often plays fast unless rain occurs.

TRACK CONDITIONS

The race is scheduled for 1 1/16 miles on dirt. No official track condition (fast/muddy) was provided.

FIELD & HORSE‑BY‑HORSE ANALYSIS

POST 1 — Wiretapped

Pedigree: Gun Runner – Purrfectly Mine

Weight: 118 lbs

Jockey: Not listed

Trainer: Todd A. Pletcher

Owner: Repole Stable & LNJ Foxwoods

Breeder: International Equities Holding, Inc.

Analysis: A well‑bred filly from a powerhouse barn. Pletcher excels with route fillies, and Gun Runner progeny typically improve with distance. A major win threat.

POST 2 — Law School

Pedigree: Mitole – Argue My Case

Weight: 118 lbs

Jockey: Yedsit Hazlewood

Trainer: Jamie Ness

Owner: Super C Racing Inc. & Jagger Inc.

Breeder: Southern Comfort Farm LLC

Analysis: Ness is one of the most consistent Mid‑Atlantic trainers. This filly has tactical speed and should sit a good stalking trip.

POST 3 — Diamond N Dress

Pedigree: Connect – Seville’s Princess

Weight: 118 lbs

Jockey: Jose E. Vargas

Trainer: W. Thomas McMahon

Owner: Lisa S. Delp & Silvia Gallegos

Breeder: Wasabi Ventures Stables LLC, Greenspring Mares LLC & W. S. Farish

Analysis: Lightly raced filly with upside. Needs a step forward to contend but has the pedigree to stretch out.

POST 4 — Three Sixty

Pedigree: Twirling Candy – Two Sixty

Weight: 118 lbs

Jockey: Jaime A. Torres

Trainer: Anthony W. Dutrow

Owner: Woodford Racing LLC & Team D

Breeder: Stonestreet Thoroughbred Holdings LLC

Analysis: Dutrow’s fillies often improve sharply in spring. A live contender with tactical speed.

POST 5 — Ivy Girl

Pedigree: Maxfield – Critikal Reason

Weight: 124 lbs

Jockey: Victor R. Carrasco

Trainer: Amelia J. Green

Owner: Lucky Hat Racing LLC

Breeder: Farfellow Farms Ltd.

Analysis: Carrasco is a top Laurel rider. Ivy Girl carries top weight and has the pedigree to relish two turns. A major player.

POST 6 — Miss Fulton Gal

Pedigree: Rock Your World – Leah Forestiere

Weight: 124 lbs

Jockey: Raul E. Mena

Trainer: Michael E. Gorham

Owner: Trott Racing Stable, Five Sisters Farm & John Polizos

Breeder: Malia Hopkins, Virginia Moore & Lee Forestiere

Analysis: A filly with improving form. Needs pace to run at but has shown late kick.

POST 7 — A.P.’s Girl

Pedigree: Honor A. P. – March X Press

Weight: 118 lbs

Jockey: James Graham

Trainer: Peter Eurton

Owner: C R K Stable LLC

Breeder: Parks Investment Group LLC

Analysis: Ships in from a strong West Coast barn. Graham is a capable big‑race rider. A dangerous outsider.

POST 8 — Jumping the Gun

Pedigree: Gun Runner – Breaking Bread

Weight: 118 lbs

Jockey: Julio A. Hernandez

Trainer: Andrew L. Simoff

Owner: Imaginary Stables

Breeder: John Guarnere

Analysis: Gun Runner filly with early speed. Could be a pace factor but must prove stamina.

POST 9 — Momaxie

Pedigree: Maximus Mischief – Ms Costello

Weight: 118 lbs

Jockey: Jeiron Barbosa

Trainer: Jose Corrales

Owner: Alex Igelman & Pan Am Racing

Breeder: Greathouse Equine LLC, David Greathouse, Kerry Cauthen & Tony Lacy

Analysis: A filly with improving speed figures. Barbosa is a rising star at Laurel. A live longshot.

RECENT FORM & RACE HISTORY

Horse Racing Nation confirms all nine fillies are entered for the 2026 running. No recent finish data was provided for individual horses beyond entry status.

PACE & RACE SHAPE (Inference)

Early Speed: Jumping the Gun, Law School

Pressers: Three Sixty, Ivy Girl

Mid‑pack: Wiretapped, A.P.’s Girl

Closers: Miss Fulton Gal, Momaxie

Expect a moderate to fast pace, typical of Laurel dirt routes for fillies.

Horse Race Preview: Race 8 – King T. Leatherbury Stakes at Laurel Park

Track: Laurel Park — Laurel, Maryland

Surface: Turf Distance: 5½ Furlongs Purse: $100,000 Eligibility: 3‑year‑olds & up

Scheduled Post Time: 3:22 PM ET

Expected Weather Conditions (Inference)

No weather information was provided in the sourced material. Inference: Mid‑April in Maryland typically brings mild temperatures (55–70°F) with variable cloud cover. Turf sprints at Laurel often run on firm to good ground unless rain occurs.

TRACK CONDITIONS

The race is scheduled for 5½ furlongs on turf. No official going (firm/good/yielding) was provided.

FIELD & HORSE‑BY‑HORSE ANALYSIS

POST 1 — Eamonn

Pedigree: Pioneerof the Nile – Super Espresso

Age/Sex: 8‑year‑old Horse

Weight: 124 lbs

Jockey: Edwin Gonzalez

Trainer: Joseph F. Orseno

Owner: Robert Cotran

Breeder: B. Flay Thoroughbreds

Recent Finish: 3rd in 2026 Silks Run Stakes (LS)

Analysis: A seasoned turf sprinter with strong late pace. Reliable but may need a perfect trip from the rail.

POST 2 — Prince of Jericho

Pedigree: Munnings – Golden Review

Age/Sex: 6‑year‑old Horse

Weight: 124 lbs

Jockey: Sheldon Russell

Trainer: Brittany T. Russell

Owner: Michael Dubb & Morris Bailey

Breeder: Edward Seltzer

Recent Finish: 2nd in Laurel AOC (3/15/26)

Analysis: Sharp recent form and a top local jockey/trainer combo. Major win threat.

POST 3 — King Covee

Pedigree: Animal Kingdom – Regal Roma

Age/Sex: 6‑year‑old Gelding

Weight: 120 lbs

Jockey: Angel Cruz

Trainer: Phil Schoenthal

Owner: Kingdom Bloodstock

Breeder: Christopher Kuhn

Recent Finish: 2nd in Laurel SOC (11/27/25)

Analysis: Lightly raced recently but has tactical speed. Needs improvement to contend.

POST 4 — Had to Have Him

Pedigree: Force the Pass – Success At Sunup

Age/Sex: 5‑year‑old Gelding

Weight: 124 lbs

Jockey: Jevian Toledo

Trainer: John E. Salzman Jr.

Owner: Gracie Mae Stables & Great Lake Stable

Breeder: Wes Carter

Recent Finish: Winner of Maryland Million Turf Sprint Stakes

Analysis: Comes in off a stakes win. Dangerous speed and strong local connections.

POST 5 — Doncho

Pedigree: Mo Town – Sassy Redhead

Age/Sex: 5‑year‑old Gelding

Weight: 126 lbs (Highweight)

Jockey: Jaime A. Torres

Trainer: Michelle Lovell

Owner: JAL Racing

Breeder: Susan Young

Recent Finish: 7th in 2025 Woodford Stakes (G2)

Analysis: Classy sprinter with graded‑stakes experience. Highweight assignment shows respect.

POST 6 — Outlaw Kid

Pedigree: Violence – Calling Rhy Rhy

Age/Sex: 7‑year‑old Gelding

Weight: 120 lbs

Jockey: Jorge Ruiz

Trainer: George Weaver

Owner: R. A. Hill Stable & SGV Thoroughbreds

Breeder: Robert G. Harvey

Recent Finish: 4th in 2025 Aqueduct Turf Sprint Championship

Analysis: A consistent turf sprinter with strong back class. A live contender.

POST 7 — Incinerator

Pedigree: Flameaway – Pieces of Speight

Age/Sex: 5‑year‑old Horse

Weight: 122 lbs

Jockey: Ismerio Villalobos

Trainer: Jose J. Magana

Owner: Pepe Stable & JLM Jacona Stable

Breeder: Rosilyn Polan

Recent Finish: 4th in Turfway AOC (1/14/26)

Analysis: Solid mid‑pack runner but may be outclassed here.

POST 8 — Chasing Liberty

Pedigree: Constitution – Peaceful

Age/Sex: 4‑year‑old Colt

Weight: 122 lbs

Jockey: Angel Cruz

Trainer: Rob Atras

Owner: Twin Creeks Racing Stables & CMNWLTH

Breeder: Twin Creeks Farm

Recent Finish: 5th in 2025 Franklin‑Simpson (G1)

Analysis: Youngest horse in the field with high‑end graded experience. Upside play.

POST 9 — Fore Harp

Pedigree: Weigelia – Katarica Disco

Age/Sex: 8‑year‑old Gelding

Weight: 124 lbs

Jockey: Abner Adorno

Trainer: Robert E. Reid Jr.

Owner: LC Racing, James Bonner & Robert Reid Jr.

Breeder: St. Omer’s Farm

Recent Finish: 6th in Laurel AOC (11/23/25)

Analysis: Veteran sprinter with local experience. Needs a form reversal.

POST 10 — Schwarzmeier

Pedigree: Liam’s Map – Mayfair Lady

Age/Sex: 5‑year‑old Horse

Weight: 122 lbs

Jockey: James Graham

Trainer: Peter Eurton

Owner: David A. Bernsen LLC

Breeder: Iapetus Racing

Recent Finish: Winner of Fair Grounds AOC (2/16/26) with a 150 speed rating

Analysis: Explosive last‑out figure makes him a major threat if he repeats.

POST 11 — Determined Kingdom

Pedigree: Animal Kingdom – Filia

Age/Sex: 7‑year‑old Gelding

Weight: 120 lbs

Jockey: Paco Lopez

Trainer: Michael J. Trombetta

Owner: Estate of R. Larry Johnson

Breeder: Audley Farm Equine

Recent Finish: 5th in Keeneland Allowance (10/18/25)

Analysis: Capable but inconsistent. Lopez is a strong turf sprint rider.

POST 12 — Jean Valjean

Pedigree: Uncle Lino – Lady’s Tale

Age/Sex: 7‑year‑old Gelding

Weight: 120 lbs

Jockey: Jomar Torres

Trainer: Elizabeth M. Merryman

Owner: Hasting Farm

Breeder: Hasting Farm

Recent Finish: 3rd in 2024 Aqueduct Turf Sprint Championship

Analysis: Long‑shot closer who needs a pace meltdown.

POST 13 — Whenigettoheaven (AE)

Pedigree: Street Magician – Heaven Knows What

Age/Sex: 7‑year‑old Gelding

Weight: 126 lbs

Jockey: Yedsit Hazlewood

Trainer: Nolan Ramsey

Owner: Kenneth L. Ramsey

Breeder: R. Larry Johnson

Status: Also‑Eligible (needs a scratch)

Analysis: Highweight AE with strong Maryland pedigree. Dangerous if he draws in.

PACE & RACE SHAPE (Inference)

Early Speed: Had to Have Him, Doncho, Outlaw Kid

Pressers: Prince of Jericho, Schwarzmeier

Closers: Eamonn, Jean Valjean

Horse Race Preview: Race 7 – Dahlia Stakes at Laurel Park

Track: Laurel Park — Laurel, Maryland

Surface: Turf Distance: 1 Mile Purse: $100,000 Guaranteed Eligibility: Fillies & Mares, 3‑years‑old and up

Scheduled Post Time: 2:52 PM ET

Expected Weather Conditions (Inference)

No weather data was provided in the sourced material. Inference: Mid‑April in Maryland typically brings mild temperatures (55–70°F) with variable cloud cover. Turf conditions at Laurel Park this time of year often range from good to firm, depending on rainfall.

TRACK CONDITIONS

The entries list the race as One Mile (Turf), but no official going (firm/good/yielding) was provided.

FIELD & HORSE‑BY‑HORSE ANALYSIS

POST 1 — Calamity

Pedigree: Gun Runner – Mighty Moon

Age/Sex: 4‑year‑old Filly

Weight: 122 lbs

Jockey: Angel Cruz

Trainer: Brendan P. Walsh

Owner: Calumet Farm

Breeder: Drumkenny Farm & American Equistock Inc.

Analysis: A well‑bred filly by Gun Runner with tactical speed. Walsh is excellent with turf milers, and Cruz fits front‑end types well. A major pace presence and win contender.

POST 2 — Sheila’s Lion

Pedigree: Persian King (IRE) – Last Kitten

Age/Sex: 4‑year‑old Filly

Weight: 120 lbs

Jockey: Sheldon Russell

Trainer: J. Keith Desormeaux

Owner: T Zach Racing LLC & Brad Allshouse

Breeder: SF Bloodstock LLC

Analysis: A lightly raced filly with strong European‑influenced pedigree. Russell is one of Maryland’s most reliable turf riders. A live upset candidate.

POST 3 — Princess Javoncia

Pedigree: Animal Kingdom – Dancinginthestreet

Age/Sex: 9‑year‑old Mare

Weight: 120 lbs

Jockey: Not listed

Trainer: Elizabeth M. Merryman

Owner: Greyledge Thoroughbreds & Elizabeth Merryman

Breeder: Blackstone Farm LLC

Analysis: A seasoned veteran with deep turf experience. Lacks recent top‑level form but brings consistency. More likely to hit the bottom of exotics.

POST 4 — Ribaltagaia

Pedigree: Blame – Silk Assassin

Age/Sex: 5‑year‑old Mare

Weight: 120 lbs

Jockey: Jorge Ruiz

Trainer: H. Graham Motion

Owner: Frassetto Stables LLC

Breeder: Mr. Wilbert Tan

Analysis: Motion excels with turf mares, especially at Laurel. Ribaltagaia has a strong closing kick and should benefit from a contested pace. A major win threat.

POST 5 — Summerintahoe

Pedigree: Tapit – Tossup

Age/Sex: 5‑year‑old Mare

Weight: 120 lbs

Jockey: Jaime A. Torres

Trainer: Michael Ann Ewing

Owner: Tier Racing LLC

Breeder: Fred W. Hertrich III & Tapit Syndicate

Analysis: Tapit mares often excel at middle distances. Summerintahoe has tactical speed and could sit a perfect stalking trip. A value play.

POST 6 — Curlin’s Angel

Pedigree: Curlin – Sabrina’s Angel

Age/Sex: 5‑year‑old Mare

Weight: 120 lbs

Jockey: Paco Lopez

Trainer: Jorge R. Abreu

Owner: Parkland Thoroughbreds

Breeder: Parkland Thoroughbreds

Analysis: Lopez is aggressive and may send early. Curlin mares often improve with age. A dangerous pace‑pressing type.

POST 7 — Storm Miami (IRE)

Pedigree: Blue Point (IRE) – Cosmic Love (GB)

Age/Sex: 5‑year‑old Mare

Weight: 124 lbs (Highweight)

Jockey: Victor R. Carrasco

Trainer: Amelia J. Green

Owner: EGL‑One Racing

Breeder: JC Bloodstock & Goodwill Bloodstock

Equipment Change: Blinkers Off

Analysis: The highweight and only horse with an equipment change. Blue Point progeny are fast and classy. A major contender if she relaxes without blinkers.

POST 8 — Mahra’s Love (IRE)

Pedigree: Dark Angel (IRE) – Rosadora (IRE)

Age/Sex: 4‑year‑old Filly

Weight: 120 lbs

Jockey: Vincent Cheminaud

Trainer: Michelle Nihei

Owner: Tropical Racing

Breeder: Grangemore Stud

Analysis: A European‑bred filly with strong turf credentials. Cheminaud is a world‑class turf rider. A live longshot with upside.

POST 9 — Amie’s Symphony

Pedigree: Mendelssohn – Amie’s Legend

Age/Sex: 5‑year‑old Mare

Weight: 122 lbs

Jockey: Horacio Karamanos

Trainer: Michael J. Trombetta

Owner: Country Life Farm

Breeder: Two Legends Farm & Sycamore Hall Thoroughbreds LLC

Analysis: Karamanos is lethal on the Laurel turf. Mendelssohn offspring often show strong late kicks. A major player in the stretch.

PACE & RACE SHAPE (Inference)

Likely front‑runners: Calamity, Curlin’s Angel

Pressers: Summerintahoe, Sheila’s Lion

Mid‑pack stalkers: Ribaltagaia, Storm Miami

Closers: Amie’s Symphony, Princess Javoncia

Expect a moderate early pace, with the race decided in the final furlong.

Horse Race Preview: Race 10 – Grade II VisitLEX Elkhorn Stakes at Keeneland

Track: Keeneland Race Course — Lexington, Kentucky

Distance: 1½ miles (Turf) Purse: $400,000 Age/Sex: 4‑year‑olds & up Scheduled Post Time: 5:48 PM ET

Expected Weather Conditions

No weather information was provided in the sourced material. Inference: Keeneland in mid‑April typically features mild spring temperatures (50s–70s°F) with light winds and variable cloud cover. Turf conditions often range from firm to good depending on rainfall.

FIELD & HORSE‑BY‑HORSE ANALYSIS

Below is a complete breakdown of all 12 main entrants plus the also‑eligible horse, using verified entries from BloodHorse.

POST 1 — Padiddle

Pedigree: Empire Maker – Belle Chaussee

Age/Sex: 6‑year‑old Gelding

Weight: 118 lbs

Jockey: Jose E. Morelos

Trainer: Elizabeth L. Dobles

Owner: Imaginary Stables

Breeder: Frankfort Park Farm

Analysis: A durable long‑distance turf runner with grinding style. Needs pace to close into. A fringe exotics player.

POST 2 — Desvio

Pedigree: Yoshida (JPN) – Fitzrovia

Age/Sex: 5‑year‑old Gelding

Weight: 120 lbs

Jockey: John R. Velazquez

Trainer: Madison F. Meyers

Owner: Stonelea Stables & Bonnie Rye Stable

Breeder: Eliza St George & Lee Mauberret

Analysis: Lightly raced but talented. Velazquez is a major upgrade. Could sit a perfect stalking trip.

POST 3 — Utah Beach

Pedigree: English Channel – My Own Story

Age/Sex: 6‑year‑old Gelding

Weight: 118 lbs

Jockey: Ben Curtis

Trainer: Brendan P. Walsh

Owner: Amling & Merriebelle Stable

Breeder: J. Amling & Merriefield Farm

Analysis: Proven marathon turf performer. English Channel progeny excel at 12 furlongs. A live contender.

POST 4 — Grand Sonata

Pedigree: Medaglia d’Oro – A.P. Sonata

Age/Sex: 7‑year‑old Horse

Weight: 120 lbs

Jockey: Tyler Gaffalione

Trainer: Todd A. Pletcher

Owner: Whisper Hill Farm

Breeder: Whisper Hill Farm

Analysis: Classy veteran with tactical speed. Gaffalione rides Keeneland exceptionally well. Major win threat.

POST 5 — Fleetfoot (IRE)

Pedigree: Teofilo (IRE) – Fleeting Smile

Age/Sex: 6‑year‑old Gelding

Weight: 118 lbs

Jockey: Danny Sheehy

Trainer: Barry Foley

Owner: Molly & Paul Willis

Breeder: Shadwell Estate

Analysis: European‑bred stamina type. Strong late kick but needs firm turf to show best.

POST 6 — Burnham Square

Pedigree: Liam’s Map – Linda

Age/Sex: 4‑year‑old Gelding

Weight: 118 lbs

Jockey: Brian Hernandez Jr.

Trainer: Ian R. Wilkes

Owner/Breeder: Whitham Thoroughbreds

Analysis: Lightly raced and improving. Pedigree suggests stamina. A potential longshot with upside.

POST 7 — Truly Quality

Pedigree: Quality Road – Truly Together

Age/Sex: 6‑year‑old Gelding

Weight: 120 lbs

Jockey: Luan Machado

Trainer: Jonathan Thomas

Owner: Augustin Stable

Breeder: George Strawbridge Jr.

Analysis: Consistent and classy. Should sit mid‑pack and make a sustained run. Reliable exotics horse.

POST 8 — Tawny Port

Pedigree: Pioneerof the Nile – Livi Makenzie

Age/Sex: 7‑year‑old Horse

Weight: 118 lbs

Jockey: Joel Rosario

Trainer: Miguel Clement

Owner: Peachtree Stable

Breeder: WinStar Farm

Analysis: Former dirt star now thriving on turf. Rosario’s patient style fits perfectly. A major contender.

POST 9 — Navy Seal (IRE)

Pedigree: Dubawi (IRE) – Athena (IRE)

Age/Sex: 5‑year‑old Gelding

Weight: 118 lbs

Jockey: Gerardo Corrales

Trainer: Wesley A. Ward

Owner: Mrs. Fitriani Hay

Breeder: Coolmore

Analysis: Elite European pedigree. Ward excels with turf runners. Dangerous if he handles the distance.

POST 10 — Presider

Pedigree: Connect – Lawless Miss

Age/Sex: 6‑year‑old Gelding

Weight: 118 lbs

Jockey: Axel Concepcion

Trainer: Joe Sharp

Owner: Carl R. Moore Management

Breeder: Colts Neck Stables

Analysis: Honest type but may be outclassed at this level. Needs a career‑best effort.

POST 11 — Freedom’s Way

Pedigree: Declaration of War – Wonderfuladventure

Age/Sex: 7‑year‑old Gelding

Weight: 118 lbs

Jockey: Luis Saez

Trainer: Eddie Kenneally

Owner: Richard & Connie Snyder

Breeder: Cove Springs Farm

Analysis: Veteran marathoner with tactical speed. Saez is aggressive and may send early.

POST 12 — Anegada

Pedigree: Midshipman – Love Cove

Age/Sex: 4‑year‑old Gelding

Weight: 118 lbs

Jockey: Flavien Prat

Trainer: Michael J. Maker

Owner: Three Diamonds Farm

Breeder: Leonard Supchak

Analysis: Maker is elite with turf stayers. Prat is one of the best turf riders in America. A major sleeper.

ALSO ELIGIBLE — POST 13 — Dancin in Da’nile

Pedigree: Pioneerof the Nile – Dance Again

Age/Sex: 7‑year‑old Gelding

Weight: 118 lbs

Jockey: Mario Gutierrez

Trainer: Gail Cox

Owner: Murray Stable & Partners

Breeder: Sam‑Son Farm

Analysis: Needs a scratch to draw in. If he does, he brings deep stamina and experience.

TRACK CONDITIONS

Timeform lists the going as Good (Turf) for Keeneland on April 18, 2026.

PACE & RACE SHAPE (Inference)

Likely front‑runners: Freedom’s Way, Navy Seal

Pressers: Grand Sonata, Desvio

Mid‑pack stalkers: Utah Beach, Fleetfoot, Anegada

Closers: Tawny Port, Truly Quality, Padiddle

Expect a moderate early pace, with the race decided in the long Keeneland stretch.

Horse Race Preview: Race 9 – Ben Ali Stakes at Keeneland

Track: Keeneland Race Course — Lexington, Kentucky

Distance: 1 3/16 miles (Dirt) Purse: $350,000 Age/Sex: 4‑year‑olds & up Scheduled Post Time: 5:16 PM ET

Expected Weather Conditions

No weather data was provided in the sourced material. Inference: Keeneland in mid‑April typically features mild spring conditions (50s–70s°F) with a chance of light wind or scattered clouds. This is an inference only — not sourced.

FIELD ANALYSIS — HORSE‑BY‑HORSE BREAKDOWN

Below is a complete analysis of all nine entrants, using verified entries and recent‑form data.

POST 1 — Stars and Stripes

Sire: Not This Time

Age/Sex: 4‑year‑old Colt

Weight: 118 lbs

Jockey: Luis Saez

Trainer: William I. Mott

Owner: Frassetto Stables LLC

Breeder: Pam & Martin Wygod

Recent Finish: 1st in Oaklawn Park Allowance Optional Claiming (3/8/26)

Morning Line Odds: Not provided in sources

Analysis: A lightly raced but improving colt with tactical speed. Saez fits his forward running style well. Mott’s horses typically move forward second off the layoff, making him a major contender.

POST 2 — Awesome Aaron

Sire: Practical Joke

Age/Sex: 7‑year‑old Gelding

Weight: 118 lbs

Jockey: Joel Rosario

Trainer: Norm W. Casse

Owner: Turman Racing Stable LLC, AJ Suited Racing Stable LLC & Mark Blieden

Breeder: Lester Kwok & Dr. Naoya Yoshida

Recent Finish: 7th in 2026 Oaklawn Mile (G3)

Analysis: A veteran with back‑class but inconsistent recent form. Rosario may try to settle and make one run, but he must improve significantly to threaten.

POST 3 — Tennessee Lamb

Sire: Tonalist

Age/Sex: 5‑year‑old Horse

Weight: 118 lbs

Jockey: Axel Concepcion

Trainer: George R. Arnold II

Owner/Breeder: Calumet Farm

Recent Finish: 3rd in Gulfstream Park AOC (3/1/26)

Analysis: A grinding type who prefers longer distances. Reliable but lacks a sharp turn of foot. Could clunk up for a piece if pace collapses.

POST 4 — British Isles

Sire: Justify

Age/Sex: 5‑year‑old Gelding

Weight: 123 lbs (Highweight)

Jockey: John R. Velazquez

Trainer: Richard Baltas

Owner: Slam Dunk Racing, Deborah Baltas & Cynthia McClanahan

Breeder: Orpendale/Chelston/Wynatt

Recent Finish: 1st in 2026 Santa Anita Handicap (G1)

Analysis: The class of the field. Comes off a Grade I victory, showing tactical speed and stamina. Velazquez is elite in big‑money routes. The one to beat.

POST 5 — San Siro

Sire: Classic Empire

Age/Sex: 5‑year‑old Gelding

Weight: 118 lbs

Jockey: Tyler Gaffalione

Trainer: Brendan P. Walsh

Owners: Andrew Farm, Mountmellick Farm, Ocean Reef Racing, White Mountain Stables & Stonecrest Farm

Breeder: Frankfort Park Farm et al.

Recent Finish: 3rd in 2026 Essex Handicap (G3)

Analysis: Consistent graded‑stakes performer. Gaffalione rides Keeneland extremely well. A logical underneath play.

POST 6 — Batten Down

Sire: Tapit

Age/Sex: 5‑year‑old Ridgling

Weight: 118 lbs

Jockey: Flavien Prat

Trainer: William I. Mott

Owner/Breeder: Juddmonte

Recent Finish: 1st in Pig Trail Overnight Stakes (2026)

Analysis: Lightly raced and improving. Prat is a master at timing late runs. A live longshot with upside.

POST 7 — Guns and Glory

Sire: Gun Runner

Age/Sex: 5‑year‑old Gelding

Weight: 118 lbs

Jockey: Danny Sheehy

Trainer: Anna M. Meah

Owner: Starry Night Racing

Breeder: Stud TNT LLC

Recent Finish: 8th in Turfway AOC (3/28/26)

Analysis: Outclassed on paper. Would need a major turnaround to contend.

POST 8 — Rattle N Roll

Sire: Connect

Age/Sex: 7‑year‑old Horse

Weight: 118 lbs

Jockey: Brian Hernandez Jr.

Trainer: Kenneth G. McPeek

Owners: Lucky Seven Stable & Sharaf Mohamad Alhariri

Breeder: St. Simon Place

Recent Finish: 9th in 2026 Saudi Cup (G1)

Analysis: A proven graded‑stakes competitor with deep stamina. The Saudi Cup effort was against world‑class competition. Major rebound candidate.

POST 9 — Honor Marie

Sire: Honor Code

Age/Sex: 5‑year‑old Gelding

Weight: 118 lbs

Jockey: Joseph D. Ramos

Trainer: D. Whitworth Beckman

Owners: Ribble Farms LLC & Lighthouse Racing

Breeder: Royce Pulliam

Recent Finish: 3rd in 2026 Kentucky Cup Classic (G3)

Analysis: A steady grinder who fits well at this distance. Not flashy, but always tries. A good value play for trifectas.

PACE & RACE SHAPE ANALYSIS

Early Speed: Stars and Stripes, British Isles Pressers: San Siro, Batten Down Closers: Rattle N Roll, Honor Marie, Tennessee Lamb

British Isles projects to sit just off Stars and Stripes before making a decisive move on the far turn.

PWHL Game Preview: Toronto Sceptres (9-1-5-12) vs. Minnesota Frost (13-3-4-7)

Faceoff is scheduled for 1:30 PM ET

Venue: Grand Casino Arena — St. Paul, Minnesota

Team Records

(Record formats provided by user; no standings data available in sources.)

TeamRecordNotes
Toronto Sceptres9‑1‑5‑12Battling for playoff positioning
Minnesota Frost13‑3‑4‑7One of the league’s top teams

Recent Form (Inference Based on Records)

Because no game‑by‑game results were provided in sources, the following is inferred from overall records:

Toronto Sceptres

Toronto’s record suggests a team that plays many close games (high OT/SO frequency).

Their ability to secure points in extra time keeps them competitive in the standings.

Minnesota Frost

Minnesota’s strong win column (13) indicates consistent high‑level play.

Their low regulation‑loss total (7) suggests strong defensive structure and elite goaltending.

Injury Report

No injury information was provided in any available sources. Inference: Both teams are expected to ice near‑full rosters unless late scratches occur.

Key Player Matchups (Inference)

Because no player‑specific data was available in sources, the following is team‑style analysis:

Toronto Sceptres

Toronto typically relies on speed through the neutral zone and strong puck‑movement from the back end.

Their success often depends on generating controlled entries and creating high‑danger chances off the cycle.

Minnesota Frost

Minnesota is known league‑wide for physicality, forechecking pressure, and elite defensive structure.

Their top forwards excel at puck protection and extended offensive‑zone time.

Series History

No head‑to‑head results were provided in available sources. Inference: Minnesota’s stronger record suggests they may have the historical edge, but Toronto’s OT/SO resilience makes them a dangerous matchup.

Betting Trends

Minnesota’s record suggests strong performance in regulation.

Toronto’s high OT/SO frequency suggests they keep games close.

Minnesota likely controls pace; Toronto thrives in transition.

GAME ODDS

Toronto Sceptres             5

Minnesota Frost               – 160

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, April 17, 2026

PWHL Game Preview: Vancouver Goldeneyes (8-1-4-14) vs. Seattle Torrent (7-1-3-16)

Faceoff is scheduled for 4:00 PM PT

Venue: Climate Pledge Arena — Seattle, Washington

Standings Context & Playoff Stakes

Vancouver Goldeneyes (8‑1‑4‑14) enter this matchup still mathematically alive in the playoff race.

Seattle Torrent (7‑1‑3‑16) have been officially eliminated from playoff contention following their loss to Vancouver earlier in the week.

Seattle now plays for draft order points under the PWHL Gold Plan, aiming to secure the first overall pick.

Vancouver, meanwhile, is fighting to stay within reach of the middle of the standings and keep their slim postseason hopes alive.

Team Records

TeamRecordPointsNotes
Vancouver Goldeneyes8‑1‑4‑14Record format only; points not provided in sourcesRecently eliminated Seattle; still chasing playoff pack
Seattle Torrent7‑1‑3‑1626 pts (through 27 games)First team eliminated from playoff contention

Recent Form

Vancouver Goldeneyes

Recently defeated Seattle in a crucial elimination game.

Their win kept their playoff hopes alive and brought them within one point of New York.

Vancouver has shown improved structure and urgency in recent games.

Seattle Torrent

Eliminated from playoff contention after their loss to Vancouver.

Now focused on accumulating draft order points.

Despite struggles, Seattle continues to draw strong home crowds and maintain competitive energy.

Injury Report

No injury updates were provided in available sources for either team. Inference: Both clubs are expected to dress near‑full rosters unless late scratches occur.

Key Player Matchups

(No player‑specific stats were available in sourced material; analysis is based on team‑level trends and situational context.)

Vancouver Goldeneyes

Vancouver’s ability to generate offense in transition was key in their recent win over Seattle.

Expect them to lean on their top‑six forwards to pressure Seattle’s defensive zone exits.

Seattle Torrent

Seattle’s season has been defined by inconsistency, but they have strong individual talent capable of driving play.

With playoff pressure removed, Seattle may play looser and more creatively, which can create volatility.

Series & Historical Notes

Vancouver’s recent win over Seattle officially eliminated the Torrent from playoff contention.

Vancouver remains in the hunt, though still several points behind Ottawa for the final playoff spot.

Seattle now plays for draft positioning, which can influence late‑season strategy and ice‑time distribution.

Betting Trends

Vancouver is playing with urgency and has already beaten Seattle this week.

Seattle, now eliminated, may rotate lines or emphasize development minutes.

Vancouver’s defensive structure typically keeps games close.

Seattle’s home crowd energy at Climate Pledge Arena can boost early momentum.

GAME ODDS

Vancouver Goldeneyes                 – 135

Seattle Torrent                                  5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, April 17, 2026

PWHL Game Preview: New York Sirens (9-2-3-13) vs. Ottawa Charge (7-7-1-12)

Faceoff is scheduled for 7:00 PM ET

Venue: Place Bell — Laval, Québec

Standings Context & Playoff Stakes

This matchup carries major playoff implications:

Ottawa Charge currently hold the 4th and final playoff spot with 36 points (7‑7‑1‑12).

New York Sirens sit just behind with 34 points (9‑2‑3‑13).

New York must earn at least two points in their next two games (Ottawa, Toronto) to stay alive in the playoff race.

This is effectively a must‑win scenario for both clubs.

Team Records

TeamRecordPointsStanding Notes
New York Sirens9‑2‑3‑1334 ptsFighting to stay in playoff contention
Ottawa Charge7‑7‑1‑1236 ptsCurrently hold final playoff spot

Recent Form

New York Sirens

Recently defeated Toronto 3–2 on April 15.

Have struggled with consistency but remain competitive in tight games.

Must secure points immediately to avoid elimination pressure.

Ottawa Charge

In the thick of the playoff race, holding the final spot.

Their season has been defined by tight, low‑margin games.

Enter this matchup with urgency, knowing Toronto is also chasing them.

Injury Report

No specific injury updates were provided in available sources for either team. Inference: Both teams are expected to ice near‑full rosters unless late scratches occur.

Key Player Matchups

New York Sirens

Known for strong defensive structure and opportunistic scoring.

Their ability to generate transition chances will be critical in a playoff‑style matchup.

Ottawa Charge

Ottawa’s balanced attack and disciplined neutral‑zone play have kept them in the playoff picture.

Their ability to control pace and limit New York’s rush chances will be decisive.

(Note: No player‑specific stats were available in sourced material; analysis is based on team‑level trends.)

Series & Historical Notes

This is one of the two remaining games New York has to earn the required points to stay alive.

Ottawa is defending its playoff position with Toronto and New York both within striking distance.

Betting Trends (Inferred)

Ottawa plays in numerous one‑goal games; unders often hit.

New York has been competitive against top teams but struggles to close games.

With playoff stakes high, expect a tight, low‑scoring, defensive matchup.

GAME ODDS

New York Sirens               4.5

Ottawa Charge                  – 125

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, April 17, 2026

AJOU SUSPENDED NO FEWER THAN SIX GAMES FOR VIOLATION OF GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE AND HARASSMENT POLICY

0
Reinstatement subject to completion of mandatory counselling, confidential assessment and meeting with the Commissioner

TORONTO – Saskatchewan Roughriders receiver Ajou Ajou has been suspended for 2026’s preseason games and no fewer than six additional games for violating the Canadian Football League’s (CFL) Gender-Based Violence and Harassment Policy.

The league was made aware of multiple allegations in late January and immediately initiated a third-party investigation, which included interviews with Mr. Ajou, multiple witnesses and complainants.

The investigation revealed that on November 18, 2025, Mr. Ajou engaged in aggressive and unwelcome physical contact with multiple women at a restaurant in Regina. These actions constitute breaches of the CFL’s Gender-Based Violence and Harassment Policy.

“Protecting the safety and well‑being of our communities is non‑negotiable,” said CFL Commissioner Stewart Johnston. “Our players are expected to lead with integrity and serve as role models. When improper conduct occurs, our policy is clear, and we will enforce it without exception. It is my hope that Mr. Ajou learns from this experience, and that other players take this unfortunate situation as a reminder of the standards we uphold.”

Mr. Ajou’s reinstatement process will include a minimum of 15 mandatory counselling sessions conducted by a gender-based violence expert, a psychological assessment by another independent expert and a meeting with Commissioner Johnston. Upon satisfactory completion of each, he will be eligible for reinstatement. If he is unable to satisfactorily complete any step in the process, the CFL reserves the right to modify his discipline.

The CFL condemns gender-based violence in all of its forms, including but not limited to intimate partner violence, physical and sexual assault, verbal abuse, coercive control, as well as the disrespectful and demeaning attitudes that foster violence or the tolerance of such violence. Whether these behaviours occur in public or private, gender-based violence will not be tolerated by the CFL.

Annually, CFL players, coaches, staff, and personnel are required to complete education on gender‑based violence and harassment, as well as training on match manipulation, concussion protocols, player code of conduct and the league’s drug policy.

Winnipeg Blue Bombers sign Canadian quarterback Taylor Elgersma

0

WINNIPEG – The Winnipeg Blue Bombers today announce the club has signed Canadian quarterback Taylor Elgersma.

Elgersma (six-foot-five, 227 pounds, Wilfrid Laurier University; born: March 27, 2002, in London, Ont.) joins the club after being selected in the second round, 18th overall, of the 2025 CFL Canadian Draft.

He was most recently with the Birmingham Stallions of the UFL but did not see any action due to work visa issues.

Following the CFL Canadian Draft last spring, Elgersma was signed by the Green Bay Packers on May 12, 2025, attended training camp and appeared in three NFL preseason games, completing 16-of-23 passes for 166 yards with one touchdown and no interceptions.

He was released by the Packers after training camp and then had NFL looks from the New York Giants, San Franciso 49ers, Chicago Bears and Miami Dolphins before joining the Stallions.

Elgersma’s days at Wilfrid Laurier were capped by a 2024 season in which he captured the Hec Crighton Trophy as the top player in U Sports football after throwing for 4,252 yards and 35 touchdowns against 11 interceptions for the Golden Hawks. He then became the first quarterback from a Canadian university to participate in the Senior Bowl.

Elgersma was a U Sports First Team All-Canadian in 2024 and a Second Team All-Canadian in 2023.