Steve Matthews' Belmont at the Big A selections for Thursday, May 16
Best bet: MEXICAN SUGAR (5)
Best value: FROM HELLO (7)
FIRST: Delightful Flame was eliminated at the start when 70 cents on the dollar in debut; another chance. The Sugars owns turf breeding on both sides of pedigree; follow the money. Moonlight Promises was bought for $200K as a yearling; could be the goods.
SECOND: Foxy Cara consistently logs fast late-pace figures; rates close call. Newsdley held a head to the good on top selection after setting the splits; could easily take this. Ashburn Alley has been idle since fast-figured win in debut last fall; big-time player.
THIRD: Mommasgottagun was a useful fourth in debut; more to come. Focus Pocus has finished second in all three starts; runner-up again? Top of the Table exits much-improved placing in last; right in the thick of this.
FOURTH: Willful Desire is speedy and drops; forward move in second start since six-month layoff. She's Awesome is riding a three-race winning streak; be no surprise. Gav's Dream Girl could impact at fat ticket if pace meltdown ensues.
FIFTH: Mexican Sugar was a tough-trip fourth in last at Laurel; return to maiden claimers seals the deal. That'sthefactjack moves to turf after front-running second in last; dangerous. Addressable Market could land in exotics at fat number if fractions get hot and hectic.
SIXTH: Cage Match tallied improved final fraction in last; rates close call. Treaty Obligation owns two seconds and three thirds from five starts; another minor award? Donegal Momentum has been training swiftly for first start; follow the money.
SEVENTH: From Hello is rested and packs potent kick on "A" game. Dance With Me Babe owns sprinter's speed and could play out as the controlling front-runner. Sweet Dutchess makes third start of form cycle and has benefit of the rail; must be factored into the mix.
EIGHTH: Teresa should pack amplified kick with turnback to 6 furlongs. Stormin Heist was a hard-fought second in last; bounces today? Book of Wisdom makes first start with maiden-claiming tag; worth long look. Houdini's Bride was third when favored in first start; must consider.
