Steve Matthews' Belmont at the Big A selections for Friday, Oct. 25

By Steve Matthewssteve.matthews@newsday.comOctober 20, 2024

Best bet: HILARIOUS AFFAIR (9)

Best value: SALACIOUS (7)

FIRST: Mischief Lady logged two sharp works since second in Finger Lakes stakes last time; rates close call. Unwoke compiled eye-catching training tab for debut; dangerous. Usha is speedy and rested; must consider.

SECOND: Bendoog makes third start of form cycle after improved placing in last; more to come. Classic Catch is fresh and owns fast numbers on best efforts. Law Professor is 4-for-6 on Big A loam; don't ignore.

THIRD: Purpose could be ideally positioned from outside post in compact field. Granadilla gets Lasix and could prove tough on a soft lead. Gallant Greta logged three tight works for return to dirt; don't ignore.

FOURTH: Scarlet Poppy was a tough-trip fourth in last at Kentucky Downs; forward move predicted. Chou Chou d'Aven is from a dam that has produced four turf winners; very interesting. Father Dalton is a newcomer that's firing bullets for debut; follow the money.

FIFTH: Bold Ambition fired two bullet drills since claimed by Linda Rice; price drop is concerning, however. Counter Attack exits front-end maiden score in last; worth long look. Vinsanity should be aided by return to dirt.

SIXTH: Competitive Market tallied swift late-pace figure when second in debut; more to come. Wandering Kirby (an uncoupled barn mate of top selection) and Divine Rose (sharp work tab) are firsters that demand respect if money says yes.

SEVENTH: Salacious could play out as the dominant speed in field that's light on front-runners. Hours in a Day looms the prime beneficiary if pace meltdown ensues. Comanche Peak is another that would be aided by fast fractions.

EIGHTH: Bad Larry was a sharp third in last and owns faster back numbers; more to give. Just Step On It was grossly overmatched when eased in Pa. Derby last time; more than good enough on "A" game. Hey Toby could prove tough to collar on a soft lead.

NINTH: Hilarious Affair compiled four tight works since third in last; forward move predicted. Image of Quality drops and should benefit from cutback to 6 furlongs. Playground Legend exits hard-charging second in last; dangerous. Java Buzz could play out as the speed of the speed; right in the thick of this.