I liked Premier Pegasus to win today’s Grade I Santa Anita Derby, but his defection because of a hairline fracture in the cannon bone of his left foreleg means this race is wide open.
Down to nine runners from the original field of 11 after Jaycito’s scratch Friday, I think five horses could find the winner’s circle today:
Mr. Commons — John Shirreffs wouldn’t have him in here if he didn’t think he had a shot.
Silver Medallion — Could be one of best 3-year-olds in the country if he takes to the dirt.
Comma to the Top — Is this guy regressing after five straight wins? We’ll see.
Anthony’s Cross — Shouldn’t be far off the lead and gets services of Joel Rosario.
Bench Points — Might be better in his second try around two turns.
I’m going to go with Mr. Commons in a mild surprise and key him top and bottom with the other four.
I like Caracortado in the Arcadia Stakes. He appears to have turned into one of the best grass horses in the country.
