Daily Racing Form National Digital Edition
DAN ILLMAN
MUTH handled three next-out winners, most notably Mystik Dan, when taking the Arkansas Derby. He bobbled slightly at the start, recovered to press the 26-1 leader – who finished seventh – from the two-three path, let the favored fourth-place finisher take control from the inside at the half, collared that foe on the second turn, then stayed steady.
He figures to be close to the pace again for a barn that has gone 8 for its last 22 (36 percent, $2.09 ROI) with last-out winners making their second start after layoffs of between two and four months.
Although MYSTIK DAN did receive a perfect trip and ride capturing the Derby, he doesn’t get enough credit for staying close to those fast fractions and still finishing with determination. Tracking from the pocket, he bulled his way through at the quarter pole while hopping to his right lead, then dug down to fend off the closers. He has the tactical speed that leads to good trips and is an obvious danger. His barn is 3 for its last 13 (23 percent, $2.12 ROI) with last-out winners returning on dirt.
CATCHING FREEDOM ran well for fourth in the Derby, but overall had a good trip. He raced between horses behind that fast pace, followed Mystik Dan into the stretch, then finished with interest while in behind rivals. He will kick late for a barn that has gone 6 for its last 20 (30 percent, $2.01 ROI) with horses returning in two weeks or less.
TUSCAN GOLD has tons of upside potential and might be set for a best effort in his third start of the year. Expecting him to take back early and make a strong late bid.
MUTH
MYSTIK DAN CATCHING FREEDOM TUSCAN GOLD