Handicapper Tips & Picks

P 3 McWinner 6 Thejackofdiamonds 8 Raw Power

T 3 Outbound Train 1 Bonito Boy 5 Firefliesthunder

T 1 Angelic 4 Supergirl Molly 5 Eternal Embrace

P 5 Job Hunter 2 Lilly Clare 1 Ys Flowernumberten

T 3 Chicago Hall 7 Lasting Dream 2 Hp Lucas

T 3 Fisherman Blues 8 Rule The Roost 7 Heavens Fire

P 3 Fluid 2 Tall Dark Lady 5 Kobra Kate

T 6 Eurobank Hanover 7 Houston Seelster 8 Buddies Dream

P 1 Cora Cora Cora 7 Sake Bomb 6 Timewaitsonnoone

P 3 Eternal Delight 8 Marlenes Legacy 7 Millie May Hanover

Starting the analysis with the two H. Robertson runners: #2 AERONYX on debut comes in with a steady string of works and appears race ready off the series. The barn is capable with these type of debuting runners and when they are “live” they tend to show early speed and likely to be the case under rider W. Rodriguez and their presence in that role up front could present a hurdle for some of the outer drawn runners (#5 RACING THE LIGHT and #6 LA CLASICA) that have also shown early speed.

#3 SAVVY SMILA with the benefit of a race makes a lateral class change to take on open company while racing for the higher $22.5k tag as a IL-bred. She had some steady works into debut including a drill just 4-days prior to the first start and a bullet work since. She should benefit from that conditioning and experience racing GREEN on debut including a SLOG and picking up a rider change as well as some intent noting a scratch from a MSW turf sprint last Sunday to run here instead. Will note that I. Hernandez was named for that race lands on the returning #1 MISS STEPHANIE here while SAVVY SMILA in capable hands with O. Mojica aboard.

#4 TRINITYTHREEINONE could be overlooked of the group of experience runners this season. She presents upside on the class DROP while also from the trips this season going back to the TROUBLES+ on 4/27 and was WARM on 5/15 while also less than ideal TACTIC- for the two turn distance (behind open length pacesetting winner Eliza Vance) and picking up a rider change here with A. Bendezu aboard. 

With the projected weather on Wednesday that could change the surface for this race at the least should soften up the turf. There are added challenges with today’s race shape when looking at the Plot, a unique dynamic with the Fire Contention paired with the lower SpeedRate, shown visually with the Plot position as well as the field below the ParLine. That could assist runners that have tactical speed #2 RED RIZZLER and #8 JOURNEY while at the same time enough pace for #1 PROFESSOR HIGGINS and even long shot #6 PONCHO ATTACK.

The change in class is noted for #4 VIA DEL CORSO looking to reestablish themselves following the debut win and speed figure, yet to run back to that number. The connections landing here to run for the claiming tan and lower par, a move that was considered scratched from a similar $20k N2 claiming event back on 5/15 at HS Indy. The distance and class change also coming into play for #7 REGAINED POWER on the one week turn around when catching the Sun Contention and very high 75 SpeedRate last week, a big change in dynamic landing here. 

A case can be made for both of the R. Martinez runners in this spot: #6 ACCELERATING BABE, a true N3 type already with a higher $15k N2 win back in February and returning to this circuit. She is also returning with time between starts and looks to benefit from that 44-day refresh while also back at the 6f distance. The timing is a change for #3 SLAGFLATION looking for a third straight win. She took awhile to pick up that first win, though going back though the 3-4yo campaign was running consistently, often competitively however at the higher level out in KY for those races. She moved up this year with the class relief and recent confidence with the open length wins at FP. Perhaps some REGRESSION can be projected at the same time confidence running right back and making the trip to run here also with regular rider A. Bendezu.

A. Bendezu has been a mainstay aboard #1 ECHO DREAMER including their win this season going back to 3/30 at the $5k N3 level, the three wins for less than today’s claiming tag to present eligibility here. The change in class is something that carries to #2 WRITTEN CONSENT; also looking for three straight wins on the class rise. That also comes with the change in distance back at 6f and noted GALLOP- in the 5/15 win at the 5.5f distance.

#4 LADY HELENA should show more early speed and the SLOG X_FLOW from 5/18 likely impacting her Plot position today and noted as she should be forward and contesting the early pace along with #5 LOST SUNSET one that when looking at the Plot should be “lone speed” though the “Red” PlotFit noted in this case and especially paired with the honest 43 SpeedRate. 

The potential for a surface switch is in play (and will be updated on race day) and added challenge for this group at the 5f distance regardless of surface. L. Rivelli is prepared for turf/dirt with the pair of runners and both capable at the shorter sprint distance along with brining in tactical speed and drawn well for the individuals.

#3 BIG VINCE has shown surface versatility and a level of class holding their form at the different tracks, surface and distances while also competitive in stakes company. They are a flow upgrade (BOS, Fast early pace) and all around upgrade following a controversial DQ (no change if it were up to me) in the Woodstock Stakes on 4/27 at WO.

#10 UNCASHED (MTO) showed a ton of ability on debut and picked up out of that first start showed their connections that effort was not a one-off. While they have followed a different path this year and running or the claiming tag in April (no claim) is the lone graded stakes winner in this field. That win back in 2023 winning the Quick Call (G3) at SAR, a turf sprint moved to the main track and dominant B+ open length front running score topping out a four race win streak at that time.

The pair or at least one in this field should be contention early on for #5 CONGRATS ON FIFTY stepping back up in class up off the win just 11-days ago.

Current form carries to #1 IT’S BOBS BUSINESS another dominant B+ stakes winner going back to statebred company during their juvenile campaign. While progression off those races is still yet to be seen, they have been consistent and consistent under a similar par/purse to today’s event including the two starts this year on the main track and hold surface versatility. The 5f distance could be a hurdle and similar noted for #7 AMERICAN MAYHEM one that has the pattern of SLOG and taking up the PC/Closer role sprinting – a similar off the pace runstyle for #4 GRAND HIDEWAY especially going the 5f. 

#8 EMPIRE BUILDER fits in this race at the horse to beat and when looking at the Optix TriMetric sits ABOVE+ in this field that is tough to ignore. If there is a challenge to them as an individual here it should come as race shape with the Sun Contention and higher than average 63 SpeedRate. Their presence as a Q1 Square is noted in contrast with second choice ML #4 MEGAN’S HONOR and perhaps even similar to #2 SOUL COAXING, the other projected alternative.

From off the pace, #3 READTHECLIFFNOTES should have pace to target at the same time looking at the Plot does not hold that much of a pace advantage over rivals #1 CALIBRATE and #6 GLOBAL EMPIRE runners that could sneak away at higher odds and present value.

#7 HARD TO FATHOM also taking up a role in Q4 and while in that position lacking the same finishing ability (Circle) at the same time that is in part to their recent races and tactics while up close to the pace and often close to Fast/Very Fast early paces and in terms of the Plot position, find the off-the-pace trip their preferred and returning to that runstyle could see them back to competitive ways here. 

Another scenario in terms of race shape (Fire/higher 50 SpeedRate) and Plot visuals with five of the eight runners around Q1 and the majority of those runners Circles. That scenario should make things easier on the Q4 Squares. #6 STEAMPUNK has the contender credentials and appears very live second off while showing up on this circuit. The connections appear to have them well-placed in this allowance with the change in circuit providing class relief while still racing protected and in position for the N1 win. They have experience at the N1 allowance level and with both the 8/10 allowance at ELP and 9/15 CD allowance both “off-the-board” both races came with legitimate EX – EXCUSE.

#1 MISS MIKOS should look for first and inside tracking trip while stepping back up to allowance company from the B+ $25k N2 claiming win last month. She will still be tested with class and noted as they came up short on the win end with a PERFECT trip under similar conditions last September albeit off the layoff and still earning a B OptixGRADE. That provides slight reservations if indeed the race favorite. #8 LITTLE POISON must deal with the race shape though has ability and also appears live with the series of works coming back this year. That carries to potential upside as a sophomore, though at the same time will be tested in against older for the first time. 

#1 GABE’S CHOICE earned a follow from the debut – a trip from the break (SLOG, TROUBLE_S) while making a MOVE dealing with KICKBACK- COVER behind horses (suggest surface versatility) and overall visuals suggest they can IMPROVE off the number and outcome. They appear to have come out of the debut well working twice since and landing in this spot where they find a much lower par while making the change from open MSW to statebred here – a move of further intent and retaining I. Hernandez with the familiarity.

The change in class for #1 GABE’S CHOICE could be that sneaky class edge while holding value of the other second time starters #5 DRIPPING SPRINGS (C+) and #8 GUNNY SACK (B-) returning from the 5/18 common race for trainer F. Kirby. Both should benefit from the experience and similar trips as both had to make a RUSH and part of the early pace and noted with the winner, #1 MISSED OPTION rallied from 6 lengths back at the half from off-the-pace to win.

The change in class is also noted for #7 FRONTIER MARKET and while racing for the claiming tag last out this will be their first against statebred company and a softer par today while also bringing in upside all around including the races last year and staying on as the BOS (after the TROUBLE_S and RUSH) together with Red Rizzler (next out $20k 5f turf sprint maiden winner) for place.

#10 LONE RETURN with plenty of experience can be tougher to back on the win end with confidence especially at shorter odds though another that has been competitive in statebred company including the 5/18 start with in running TROUBLE. 

Tough race to open the day. Of those that have raced already, none jump off the page at me. I'll start with 2-AERONYX on top as she debuts for Robertson. She gets Lasix, has worked consistently and the recent half mile drill shows she could be ready to roll. 6-LA CLASICA has run well in three of her four starts on the year. Her April 29 race at Fairmount was a solid field and she gets class relief from that start. Look for some speed from her on the outside. 5-RACING THE LIGHT gets Lasix today off a turf try in her first start of the year. She has tactical speed and figures to take a good amount of action.

On turf or dirt I expect 4-VIA DEL CORSO to be very tough. He broke his maiden on opening weekend and followed that race with a couple of allowance tries. He drops in for the tag in here and should be able to rate close throughout. 1-PROFESSOR HIGGINS just missed on the turf in his last but looks to be a factor on either surface. He will need some pace to chase but should benefit from the ground saving trip. 7-REGAINED POWER is the sleeper who may be worth a look on the turn back in distance. He has speed in a race that's lacking pace as he could be on send from the start.

There's a couple with speed in here which could set things up for the closing move of 6-ACCELERATING BABE. She has made four Hawthorne starts, finishing fourth in all of those races. She was claimed at this level two back and comes in with a break in between starts. 3-STAGFLATION has been very sharp in her two victories since being claimed out of a race at Turfway. She has shown a better turn of early foot in her last couple and looks to be a good fit with Bendezu aboard. 4-LADY HELENA has speed but could have company from Lost Sunset early as well. She likes this Hawthorne strip and has run well with Gonzalez aboard.

A really good claiming field in here as all are in with the shot. The horse with the best early speed on the outside is 8-EMPIRE BUILDER for trainer Armando Hernandez. He has run well here at Hawthorne and ran very well this spring at Oaklawn. He looks sharp and fits nicely in this spot. 2-SOUL COAXING was a good winner on the Hawthorne dirt two back. He stalked the pace and pounced in the lane. I expect him to rate close once again as we will see if he can wear down the leader. 3-READTHECLIFFNOTES loves this track and is still going strong. He is an honest racehorse that still runs at a high level as a 10 year old. He could benefit from the lack of pace as he should rate close to the leader.

This is a wild allowance field as six of the eight in here are seemingly all front end preferred types. With all of the expected pace in this race, I'll look to the closing move of 6-STEAMPUNK as she ships in for trainer Chris Davis. She has been running longer in recent races but her maiden score came on the dirt at this distance. I expect she tucks in early and comes charging late. 1-MISS MIKOS potentially could rate and rally as she did in her last. She has always been solid here at Hawthorne as she comes in with a pair of recent solid drills. 7-SHE'S INTHEARMYNOW was sharp in her last as she made the top early and drew clear late. She gets her preferred distance as well as she looks to have been a solid claim.

The debut race from 1-GABE'S CHOICE was better than looks as he got pinched back at the break and ran on late. He galloped out well in that race and faces state-breds in here. Expect a good effort from the inside. 7-FRONTIER MARSHAL ran a good race last out as he was close early and contended late into the lane. He may have needed that race in his first start of the year and should improve in here. 2-SENOR RUBEN debuts for Becker as he has worked well on the Fairmount dirt. His gate drill on May 16 was sharp as there's potential for him to show some early speed.

5-RACING THE LIGHT adds blinkers. She raced competitively in all her races, including a turf try in last while making her turf debut. But she’s back on dirt for this race. Should never be far off the pace. Might prevail. 6-LA CLASICA has a similar running style to that of top choice. She just missed as the favorite when she raced here three weeks ago but then didn’t far quite as well in a race downstate. Still, we know she’s in decent form. Could be the first to cross the wire. I have to give 3-SAVVY SMILA another chance. She’s an Illinois bred meeting open company and she was thoroughly beaten in her debut but this is a far easier field. Might have improved from the experience.

7-REGAINED POWER had a couple turf races that were horrible but this race has been moved to the main track and he has been far better on this surface. Drops in class and turns back in distance. He looks like the only real speed. Has to be caught. 1-PROFESSOR HIGGINS has been far more productive on the lawn but his speed figures suggest that even on dirt he’s among the fastest of these. 4-VIA DEL CORSO showed little in the two races since breaking his maiden but he was in against better both times. Would expect him to be far more competitive against this type. 

3-STAGFLATION made freaky improvement since getting claimed by this barn. She broke her maiden by 13 lengths in her first start for them, defeating six rivals and dusted her next field by six, defeating nine. This will be her toughest test yet since moving to this barn but if she runs the way she did in last two, she could leave them in her dust again. 6-ACCELERATING BABE, new stablemate of top choice, is certainly worth another look. She showed little in last, after getting claimed by a barn and making only one start for them but now moves to a barn that sports a 30% win average for runners debuting for them. She had been in good form prior to that last start, while racing here and at Oaklawn. She could prove tough to beat. 4-LADY HELENA flailed as the favorite in last but she had been red hot prior to that start, winning three in a row and narrowly missing in the other of her prior four starts. She’ll be meeting somewhat easier in this spot. Has a good chance to bounce back. 

This race became more interesting since getting switched to dirt. Probably have to give the nod to multiple stakes winner 10-UNCASHED. He was terrific as a 3yo but must have had some issues in his last start of that campaign since he was given over a year off after that campaign and had only one race as a four year old. He’s not quite the runner he was at three but he has managed to win two of his six races this year and he was favored in five of the six 2025 races. He might not be the quickest of these but he’s going to be right there throughout. Love the versatility of 8-TWIRLING ROSES. He runs well both on and off the pace and his nine local wins, from 25 tries, lets you know that he loves this track. Can they catch 5-CONGRATS ON FIFTY? He was entered for turf but he’s been better on the main track and the short five-furlong distance works in his favor. 3-BIG VINCE, stablemate on top choice, never ran on dirt but he is stakes-placed in his last two. He has loved the front end in his races but doesn’t seem to be quite as quick as a couple others in this field. 6-UNPREDICTABLE BAY fits well from a pace standpoint but it could come down to a matter of timing. At this short distance he might have to get moving sooner than would be optimal.

3-READTHECLIFFNOTES might be 10 but he’s still as game as they get. He finished second in last at this level while making his first start since October. Had two strong works since that race. Should be at the top of his game. 8-EMPIRE BUILDER races for the first time in three months and most of his works have been on the slow side but he has been very quick and has had some success off layoffs. However, he’s a six-year-old and he’s managed only six races over the last two years. He generally races competitively but those layoffs are a concern. 4-MEGAN’S HONOR will finish fast. There should be plenty of speed ahead of her and her pilot should have dead aim at the lead by the time they hit midstretch. 

It looks like most members of this field will be trying for the lead. Two who won’t be, 6-STEAMPUNK and 4-LEMON BOMB, will do their best running late. Steampunk has always faced better on a tougher circuit. She tired in a tough route race at Churchill in her first start in seven months but that race should have set her up perfectly for this sprint. Lemon Bomb owns good route speed but she’s not as quick as most of these sprinters. She did lead most of the way in her last two routes but think she’ll be a bit farther back early in this contest but could finish full of run. 8-LITTLE POISON has dangerous speed and she could be meeting her easiest field ever. She’s making her first start of the year but she had a win and a narrow loss in the two races where she ran fresh.

Wide open race but going to go with 1-GABE’S CHOICE. He showed little in his debut but he was in against open company and he had considerable trouble at the start. Guessing that with a race behind him and the move to Illinois breds, he’ll be far tougher. 8-GUNNY SACK raced in second throughout in his career debut. That race was on turf. Many think that turf races make the perfect prep for dirt. He does have speed. Should be close throughout. 7-FRONTIER MARSHALL meets Illinois breds for the first time. He was much improved with first Lasix in his last start. He could be the quickest of these. Might not get caught.