Sir Barton Stakes 2021 Picks: Shug's should Romp #5
Preakness Weekend is finally upon us, and the run-up had its share of drama. Bob Baffert and his Kentucky Derby Champion, Medina Spirit, became the focal point. His hubris, mismanagement, and outright audacity taxed the sport in a way that has yet to be realized or understood. Now, as the scene shifts to the home of the Maryland Jockey Club at Pimlico, its oldest signature race takes center stage.
A Super Saturday arrives after what amounted to a rousing edition of Black-Eyed Susan Day. For the Preakness card, a full listing of contests appears on tap, and we at HorseRacing.net/us, have you covered with a bevy of selections, and our focused analysis. Both our turf-man and our in-house handicapper are on hand to offer their “expert” opinions. Stay tuned …
The team at HorseRacing.net put together slates of selections for most thoroughbred tracks racing in the US every single day. The Picks page (linked to below) is updated at 5AM ET every day with all the selections for the upcoming slate...
Race 1: Dirt, 1 1/16th, Sir Barton S., $100k, 3
The Sir Barton S. is named for a champion of a bygone age … an era when topical creams made of steroids didn’t exist. The phrase "Super Trainer" was yet to be invented, and horse racing integrity was locally based, not discussed in the Halls of Congress. Flashing forward into the next century, things seem more complicated than ever.
Speaking of a hash of issues, trainer Bob Baffert sends one of his fold into this race, and he will be the shortest price on the Preakness tally. Hozier #4 was excellent in a MSW61k back at Santa Anita, then he followed that up with a surprising 2nd place finish in the Rebel S. (G2) at Oaklawn. Although his Arkansas Derby (G1) ride was a misfire, he comes into this spot highly-touted.
No one is unbeatable, except maybe Hakeem Olajuwon, so if you want a runner who can take on Baffert, then look no further than Romp #5 for Shug McGaughey. This colt out of Orb is a Stuart Janney homebred, and you know what that means … quality. He is ready for a big moment, and it has arrived with authority. His works look sharp, and getting Jose Ortiz to ride is a plus.
Top Selection: Romp #5
Creative Wager: $2 Exacta Cold, 5 w 4
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