Steve Matthews' Belmont at the Big A selections for Sunday, May 12
Best bet: UNAUDITED (9)
Best value: ON THE HILL (7)
FIRST: Iridescent drops after regressing in last start; rebounds. Collected Special also bounced in most recent outing; dangerous. Retail Man would be aided by pace meltdown.
SECOND: Cinderella's Cause is riding a two-race winning streak; takes another. Khali Magic could prove very tough to collar on a soft lead. Harlan's Bond could take this on "A" effort; worth long look.
THIRD: Frau Diablo projects as the main speed in compact field. Mosienko looms the prime beneficiary if top selection hits the wall. I'm Buzzy is another that would be aided by pace meltdown.
FOURTH: Best Bet could play out as the speed of the speed with aggressive ride. Ski Country drops, adds blinkers and needed last; very interesting. Harvard gets class relief and makes quick return; must consider.
FIFTH: Linarite compiled tight work tab for first start since last fall; ready. Latest Edition could play out as the controlling front-runner; dangerous. Quick Power Nap packs potent late kick on best; right in the thick of this.
SIXTH: Big Night Out is training strongly for turf debut; throw deep in wide-open grass event. Conniving displayed newfound speed in last; very interesting. States United gets Lasix for first grass start; don't overlook.
SEVENTH: On The Hill compiled tight work tab for first start since last July; has shown a history of firing big efforts off the bench. Heavyweight Champs is fleet-footed and adds blinkers; serious front-end threat. Independent Paul exits game placings in last two starts; must be factored into the mix.
EIGHTH: Buttercream Babe should move forward with return to turf; price will be on your side. Baraye was unfazed by sizzling splits to win last; very dangerous. Amidst Waves could be ideally positioned if pace meltdown ensues.
NINTH: Unaudited is rested and makes first start with maiden-claiming tag; breakthrough effort predicted. All Good Here would be aided by fast fractions. Impulsive Spending could land in exotics at fat price if pace meltdown ensues. Podere is from a dam that has produced a turf winner; odds will be tempting.
