Here are my thoughts on the five graded stakes races from Belmont. Good luck!
Race 5 – The Gallant Bloom, Grade 2 (6 ½ furlongs, dirt) for fillies and mares three years old and upward
This race looks like a perfect set up for #4 Frank’s Rockette who is off back to back graded stakes and towers over the group speed wise. She will need to falter for others to have a legitimate shot; however we know nothing in this game is guaranteed. #1 Bronx Beauty has had some nice efforts including a win at the distance, should be able to get the placing. #2 Royal Charlotte has a couple of graded wins going back to 2019.
Selections: 4-1-2
Race 6 – The Pilgrim Stakes, Grade 2 (1 1/16 miles, turf) for two year olds
#4 American Monarch disappointed last out after a tough break. He didn’t quit and still improved from his previous, expecting another jump up in this race. Quick turnaround from last race is a mild concern. #3 Public Sector is bred for the turf top and bottom. Won on debut and should improve again here today. Brown could have a monster and today could be a real coming out party. #2 It’s a Gamble is stretching out for the first time and I do like the stretch out.
Selections: 4-3-2
Race 7 – The Joe Hirsch Turf Classic, Grade 1 (1 ½ miles, turf) for three year olds and upward
There are some familiar faces in this one, but I will take a shot with #2 Master Piece shipping in (18%) for the first US start. Took to the Belmont turf well with a solid bullet work leading in. Has to prove himself against some nice horses; but this Brown trainee is a live longshot. #3 Channel Maker could benefit from a soft pace and control the tempo like he did in his last race. He is most dangerous on the front end and if uses this weapon it could be a romp. #4 Rockemperor is yet to win in the US, but keeps taking money and finishing well.
Selections: 2-3-4
Race 8 – The Kelso Handicap, Grade 2 (1 mile, dirt) for three year olds and upward
This is a small field, but a tough one nonetheless as it is evenly matched all the way around. #4 Complexity should have a pace advantage and could take it to the group with some early speed. Just missed in the Forego to now retired Win, Win, Win. #5 Code of Honor looks for another graded score; and gets class relief here. Will be without Velasquez for the first time, interested to see how that affects performance. #1 Mo Don’t No is a battle tested 7 year old who is a lifetime million dollar earner. Comes in off a bullet work and could be a nice price to spice things up.
Selections: 4-5-1
Race 9 – The Belmont Derby Invitational ,Grade 1 (1 1/4 miles, turf) for three year olds
The biggest field of the stakes races today has some potential, though some of these have faced off. #4 Domestic Spending is 3 for 4 lifetime and has been improving each race. Is without Irad Ortiz because of COVID, but in the capable hands of Castellano. #5 South Bend was a late addition to the Kentucky Derby and had a disappointing effort running last. I know Mott was expecting more and points him back in a big race this time on turf. Should be a price and has the talent to surprise. #2 Gufo is a head away from trying for a 6th win in a row. Clemente is firing on all cylinders, should be live.
Selections: 4-5-2