By Bob Ehalt and Matt Shifman

Hot List Key:

A : A preferred horse to watch                   B: Secondary horse to watch
*C: Went down 2 or more betting notches in the final 3 minutes and finished 1st through 3rd
*D: Went down 2 or more betting notches and finished 4^th or worse
* - 4 or more betting notches if 11-1 or more.

1st race – (4) True Class may find her best stride in a claimer and handle this field. (6) Protocol was third in a MSW race and looms the main foe. (5) Vino Bella was second at this level and will be a top contender. (3) Fascinator deserves a look while trying dirt for the first time. Betting strategy: 4 to win, place. Exacta box: 3-4-5-6.

3rd race – (1) Best Seller exits a stakes and may control the pace from the rail. (2) Lady Emily Kathryn may like dirt. (7) Pens Street belongs in the exotics. (4) Classic Performer should appreciate a return to dirt. Betting strategy: 1 to win, place. Exacta box: 1-2-4-7.

5th race – (8) British Isles (A) had traffic issues when 11^th as a favorite and should bounce back here. (10) Steadfast Resolve could pose a big threat in the final furlong. (2) My Boy Tony is consistent and seems ready for a solid effort. (4) Hamilton’s Way deserves attention in this field. Betting strategy: 8 to win, place. Exacta box: 2-4-8-10.

7th race – (11) Intellect looks like an interesting import from Europe who deserves top billing. (4) Evade can return to top form on turf.  (1) Depiction seems poised for a strong 2025 debut. (6) El Rezeen cannot be ignored here. Betting strategy:  11 to win, place. Exacta box: 1-4-6-11.

9th race – (5) Halstyn Rose missed by a nose at Santa Anita and can make amends here. (7) Celebrity Ro should work out a nice trip in this field. (11) Scarletta Carpetta could be a threat in her debut. (6) Spying may be sneaky good on turf. Betting strategy: 5 to win, place. Exacta box: 5-6-7-11.