Bauer's Bets: Saturday at Tampa Bay Downs

Tampa's annual two-day summer meeting starts Saturday, June 30 with an eight race card. 

Regular Tampa players will notice some strangers, both equine and human. Here's a look at a few contenders and a couple longshots.

Race 1 kicks off an all Maiden pick 3 with a mile on the weeds for fillies three and up. I would use MORNING GRACE (3), ASHLEY'S ROSE (4) and BIOSAND (6). MORNING GRACE (3) has the edge, dropping to the lowest level yet.

Race 2 stays on the green with Maiden fillies at 5 furlongs. Really like a 10-1 first timer, BLACK RUBY (1). She's well-bred has been working nicely from the gate and has Frederico Mata up (top tier gate jock) and might get the jump here. Other contenders are PASSION FOR HOPE (3), OH CHARLIE (4) and PRECIOUS PEACH (7).


Race 3 is 6 1/2 furlongs on the main track for Maiden fillies and may be the hardest to handicap due to the lackluster field. SUPER BONITA (1) and CONCERTOS APPEAL (6) look best. Pick 4 & 5 players may want to spread a bit here.

Race 4, a grassy mile for $10,000 fillies non-winners of two lifetime, has a formidable favorite. Veteran trainer Reid Nagel may have a big afternoon today. KEEP THE RING (3),
drops into this condition for the first time and 
might be worth using as a single in exotic bets, at 6/5 on the morning line. 

Race 5 showcases another Nagle chalk in a $16,000 5 furlong Turf dash. CARTERSVILLE (1) is 3/5 on the morning line and merits respect. Be watchful of rivals taking money on the board, as there is a lack of form for many of these. If he gets beat, the exotics will be hefty.

Race 6 is for $5,000 claimers at 6 furlongs. NEPHEW HOWARD D (3), MONKEY MONEY (5) and MY CHARMING CLYDE (8) will be my choices in here. NEPHEW HOWARD D (3) may the one, he is second race back after being freshened, and fits the pace setup well.

Race 7 is back on the lawn at a mile for $10,000 non-winners of two lifetime. LOST KINGDOM (6) looks best on paper, but will also use DUVALIN DREAM (1) ALABAMA JACKS (5)  and PUT THE HAT BACK (8). 

Race 8, another green mile for $10,000 Optional Claimers, appears to be a two-horse race. Looks like WALKERS LANDING (5) or I'M JUST SUPER (8) should get to the winner's circle. BRIDLES HOLIDAY (3), appears to be a vulnerable favorite.