Handicapper Tips & Picks

ILLINOIS DERBY:

#1 REAL MEN VIOLIN after the two recent starts, might not be favored and in my opinion, can rebound to his peak efforts and in that case is the horse to beat. He showed class in his juvenile season and after what appeared to be a starting off point in 2024 was not a successful pair of starts at the Fair Grounds. While those efforts, leave something to be desired, he looks to have come out of the LA Derby (G2) well working twice since and back in less than 30-days looking for this “win and you’re in” to the Preakness (G1) as the plan for the connections. R. Gutierrez coming in town to ride could suggest further intent and could be a positive change all around and show more tactical speed given the complexion of this field. He should take up a favorable stalking trip as shown on OptixPLOT as a Large Square, giving him the edge over #4 WOODCOURT by comparison and from #3 RAGUEL and #5 LE GRIS. 

#6 RAVIN'S TOWN might be the biggest "stab" in this field as a maiden and lacking the foundation of many of his rivals. With that said, he has the edge on local experience and while they will be stretching out and stretching out quite a bit, Mojica will have them on the lead and is going to take them as far as he can on the front end. #2 PATRIOT SPIRIT might try and be the only one in the field to run with him early though has been exposed (SPRINTER) at the longer distances.