Met Mile 2021 Picks: By My Standards ... Calhoun's charge wins!
1 Mile (Dirt) Metropolitan Mile (G1), $1 Million, 3+
The former champs of the Met Mile read like a Hall of Fame list of celebrated runners. Recent honored guests of the Belmont Winner’s Circle include Shackleford, Sahara Sky, Palace Malice, Honor Code, Frosted, and most recently, Mitole and Vekoma. Who will join this year?
The 2021 Edition of the “Met” is a salty soup of short routers who all have upside. Tops on the list is the return to racing for Brad Cox’s excellent barnmember, Knicks Go #6. The last time we saw him was on the track at the King Abdulaziz Racecourse in Saudi Arabia. He was bested that rainy evening by Charlatan and eventual winner Mishriff. Returning to training in early April, he could be sharp off the bench, but I do not want any part of her 6/5 price. It will not be easy to ship into this spot and win.
Instead of backing Cox’s fine 5-yr-old, I am keen on Bret Calhoun’s By My Standards #5. He was solid in the Oaklawn Mile 400k in early April, turning back Rushie at the wire. His class last year shines through, and it is great to see Gabe Saez have the opportunity to ride on the national stage.
Other shorter prices that you might consider are Mischievous Alex #1, Dr Post #2, and Silver State #3. All 3 of these will take money since they come from major barns (Joseph/Pletcher/Asmussen), and have the back class to prove it. The #1 is a Carter Hcp alum who won convincingly, but without Irad Ortiz, it is going to be tough to pick up this mantle for whomever takes the mount. As for the other 2, I like them, but not more than Calhoun’s ace. He still seems primed for this score.
Wagering Recommendation: $1 Trifecta Wheel, 5 w 1/2/3/6 w 1/2/3/6