Belmont | Race 7 | Post Time 4:40 p.m. (ET) | Go to the TimeformUS PPs 
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Rose Flower (#6) is probably the horse to beat as she drops out of stakes company down into this optional claimer. She was a little unlucky in the Christiecat as Franco had to briefly pause while trying to find a seam at the quarter pole before splitting horses. However, the main issue with her last time was the distance, since 6 furlongs just seems like it might be too short. She put in an electrifying late run going 7 furlongs in her final start in France and she’d be a handful if she could run back to that form here. Clement’s foreign shippers will sometimes need a start, so she should be ready to step forward here. That said, the Pace Projector is predicting a situation favoring runners on or near the lead, and that could work against her.

I prefer GETMOTHERAROSE (#5) as she steps up in class. This 3-year-old has improved by leaps and bounds since the springtime. She has steadily climbed the class ladder, winning her N1X condition last time like a filly who’s ready to take on tougher company. She traveled beautifully in the early stages that day and exploded once Jose Ortiz asked her for run. She has to get the 7 furlongs this time, but her ability to relax in the early stages might allow her to get it done. That recent bullet workout suggests she’s maintaining her excellent form and I think she might just be the “now” horse.

I’d also consider Psalmody (#4) as a backup since Joe Sharp is so dangerous with his turf sprinters. I usually don’t like turnbacks like this, but I wouldn’t be surprised if this mare handles it.

THE PLAY

Win: 5
Exacta Key Box: 5 with 3,4,6,8
Trifecta: 5 with 4,6 with ALL