Steve Matthews' Belmont at the Big A selections for Sunday, Oct. 9
Best bet: EONS (8)
Best value: MAD MAGIC (5)
FIRST: Storm the Empire fired half-mile bullet for first start since speed-and-fade debut; tighter today. Lt. Mitchell was an even third in first start; dangerous. Starquist is working swiftly for potent first-out barn; follow the money.
SECOND: Inflation Adjusted should improve with return to turf; rates close call. Dante's Fire packs potent kick on best efforts; very playable. Box N Score could impact if pace meltdown ensues.
THIRD: Nest holds an edge on final numbers; another unplayable NYRA stakes race. Travel Column is speedy and could prove tough on a soft lead. First to Act has fired strong efforts in all five starts.
FOURTH: Unlimitedpotential was a clear-cut second to much-the-best winner in debut; more to give. Matt Doyle is training with a purpose for return to dirt; very interesting. Southern Flag is competitive on best races.
FIFTH: Mad Magic owns field's fastest late-pace figures; call based on price. Media Sensation drops after making middle move and fading last out; big-time player. Greg's Honor turns to more manageable distance; don't dismiss.
SIXTH: Dunedin broke maiden versus winners at Kentucky Downs last time; takes another. Inflation Nation has produced strong efforts in both starts; be no surprise. Nagirroc was a hand-ridden maiden winner in last; must consider.
SEVENTH: New York Banker could shake loose in compact field that's light on speed. Sweet Mystery could be in the garden if top selection hits the wall in the lane. Mia Bea Star is another that would be aided by pace meltdown; price will be tempting.
EIGHTH: Eons is training strongly at Fair Hill base; ready to deliver big effort. Public Sector packs potent kick and hails from Chad Brown barn; dangerous. Field Pass could be favorably positioned in the stalker's seat.
NINTH: Treat Street owns speed and will be aided by turnback to sprint; set for best in third start of form cycle. Robvn and Eli fits the classic Chad Brown profile; logical, short-priced threat. Gracefully Wild owns three seconds from six starts; exotics inclusion. Eli Dancer is another that consistently hits the board; hard to eliminate.
