By Kevin Stafford

The weather will likely play a major factor in the 8th at Laurel Park on opening day.  The Baltimore area is being hammered with heavy rains on Friday and a chance of storms exists into Saturday.

On paper, #1 WINDY ANGEL appears to be the horse to beat, but note that this runner has struggled twice over wet track conditions.  Windy Angel should still be competitive here, but keep that in mind if the price becomes less attractive than the 4/1 offered on the morning line.  Also note that jockey Ryan Fogelsonger has struggled a bit recently with a case of “seconditis.”

I like two horses fairly evenly here; #4 INDY’S SONATA and #2 GLORIOUS BIRD.  Both hail from classy bloodlines (A.P. Indy and Birdstone, respectively) and seem capable of finding the winner’s circle.

I also think Windy Angel, and #6 First Lady Glenna warrant consideration in exotic plays, especially underneath.

Exacta: 2, 4/1, 2, 4, 6

Trifecta: 2, 4/1, 2, 4, 6/1, 2, 4, 6

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Kevin Stafford

www.theaspiringhorseplayer.com