Steve Matthews' Aqueduct selections for Friday, April 3
Best bet: CALL ME JAL (4)
Best value: WIDDERSHINS (6)
FIRST: Khali's Storm compiled tight work tab for first start since June; weak field helps, too. Bengalese was a much-improved second in last; dangerous. Gran Judgement drops and should move forward in second start; must consider.
SECOND: Lucky Larry never got going in the slop last time; first-time Lasix and dry land are keys. Mercilesanihilator was a subpar fourth when wide in last; don't ignore. Kid Rich could play out as the speed of the speed with Kendrick Carmouche aboard.
THIRD: Mitolegayne fired two bullet works since last start; main speed with proper ride. Judge Boushay makes second start for Chad Brown after useful third in debut; very dangerous. Who's Your Zaddy was more than 10 lengths clear of third runner when second in debut; right in the thick of this.
FOURTH: Call Me Jal is rested and gets blinkers and Lasix; breakthrough predicted. Smart Sugar was an improved second in last; dangerous. Asset Light and Directive are uncoupled newcomers from Chad Brown barn; what a game.
FIFTH: Yolo spun her wheels on Turfway's all-weather surface last time; return to Big A loam is key. So Vain was a game second in last; dangerous. Flee is riding a forward line on the numbers; don't ignore.
SIXTH: Widdershins owns speed and gets class relief; nice race to throw deep. Mia Nipotina could be in the garden spot if top selection hits the wall. Spirit of Esther is fleet-footed but lacks heart; handle with care at short ticket.
SEVENTH: Seeker's Hope is quick from gate and could prove tough to collar on a soft lead. Superpower has finished second at short odds in last two; another placing? Playa Del Mar owns fast figures and makes first start since claimed by Linda Rice; must be factored into the mix.
EIGHTH: Skylander wheels back in a hurry after non-stressful third last week; more to give. Texas Red Hot runs late and could be in the garden spot if pace meltdown ensues. Bar Fourteen is a front-end threat on "A" game. Sagamore Mischief drops after being eased in last; damaged goods?
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