Handicapper's Corner: San Marcos Stakes (G2)

  Consider Long Shots in San Marcos Stakes

By Robert Marks, They're in the Gate (and on Twitter @theyreinthegate)

On Saturday, February 4, 2017  Santa Anita will be host the Grade II San Marcos for 4 year olds and upward. The purse is $200,000 and it on the turf going 1 ¼ miles..

Here are the participants listed by Post Positions, odds and morning lines courtesy of Equibase:

Here's who we like as far as horses to consider:

It’s in the Post-what’s not too like with a juicy morning line of 12-1. He has experience at Santa Anita running 9 times on the turf at Santa Anita with 2 wins, a 2^nd and 2 thirds. He will be midpack and I expect him to be ready to strike on the last turn. He was coming on strong in the San Gabriel at Santa Anita a month back finishing 2^nd. Gets the nod here.

Texas Ryano- the current morning line favorite at 3-1 this Curlin bred 6 year old has also fared well at Santa Anita and has a win at this route along with a 2^nd out of 2 starts going 1 ¼ on the turf at SA.  Also like the fact that this is Joe Talamo’s 8^th ride on the horse.

Flamboyant- It’s hard to overlook this 4-1 horse who one last year’s edition of the race. He has not raced since November. This is a good thing as 2016 was a busy year including a trip to Dubai. This horse needed the rest and I think the 71-day rest will result in a nice run. Don’t expect a win out of this horse but can easily place or show.  

Longshots: How about Hi Happy. This light raced 5-year-old has only 7 starts with 5 wins. Of course, 6 of those starts are in Argentina so you never know. I do know he is fast and has raced as long as 1 ½ miles. He is a true speed horse who will look to take the lead and hold on.

Wagering/Betting Handigambling Bankroll: Her is our $82 worth of betting for the race

We feel confident with It’s in the Post and recommend using him in all your exotic bets.

$25 Win/Place: It’s in the Post (3) ($50 total)

EXACTA: $2 Key Exacta (10 Bets for total cost of $20)

3,5 /3,5,2,12

Trifecta ($1 Box for $12 Total)

2,3,5

As always, watch the Board and if at the track watch how the horses look in the Paddock and adjust your bets accordingly. Good Luck!