Steve Matthews' Belmont at the Big A selections for Sunday, May 18
Best Bet: YOLO (5)
Best Value: A BOURBON FOR TOBY (6)
FIRST: Princess Mischief could receive needed pace help in contentious opener. Vehemente was a clear-cut winner in last and owns fast back number; dangerous. Splashy should be aided by cutback to 6 1/2 furlongs.
SECOND: Blake B. bounced last time after fast-figured win two back; rebounds for new barn. Return the Ring is speedy and pulls weight from the field; very interesting. Best Bet and Beachwalker both own fast back figures; don't ignore.
THIRD: Margin of Air, a determined winner in last, shows a history of pairing up victories. Royal Tryst could impact if pace meltdown ensues. Chelonian stays at same level after pace-pressing score in last; must consider.
FOURTH: On the Ledge gets two-level price boost after 12-length win in last; more to give. Duke of Gloucester should pack amplified wallop with cutback to sprint. Neural Network worked four times since being eased last out; mixed message.
FIFTH: Yolo drops and has the rail on tight-turned course. Competitive Threat also gets class relief but looms a major underlay in the wagering. American Kestrel could prove to be a tough customer on a soft lead.
SIXTH: A Bourbon for Toby adds blinkers after willing fifth in first grass start; forward move predicted. Van Ginkel was second to a repeat winner in last; very dangerous. De La Cruz owns fast turf numbers; right in the thick of this.
SEVENTH: Runandscore packs solid kick and is favorably posted. Ball Don't Lie logged fast figures at Santa Anita; more than good enough on "A" game. Attorney Wade should move forward with return to dirt.
EIGHTH: Rhetorical delivered strong efforts in both starts; paltry price is the problem. Leo's Reward exits blistering-paced sprint and should be favorably positioned near the front in bulky field. El de Larry makes local debut for capable Maryland-based barn; don't dismiss.
NINTH: Ready Set Twirl is fresh, drops and could play out as the main speed with heads-up handling. Aerate is from a dam that has produced two turf winners. Battle Drum will be the prime beneficiary if pace meltdown ensues. Prairie Dunes is another that would be aided by fast fractions.
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