From the Den: The direct poop Posted on May 14, 2026 at 04:18:56 PM by Tiger
Lots of early speed in this race. * marks those where I have betting interest. As always, odds changes can alter selections in either direction, so we'll wait until just before post.
Laurel (short stretch) is decidedly different from Pimlico (short to first turn). This means early pop isn't quite as important, and stalkers are somewhat disadvantaged.
Only Taj Majal has ever run at Laurel (3 wins), and only Bull by the Horns and Taj Mahal have ever even WORKED at Laurel (where Taj shows 4 bullet works in April/May).
1: *I see Taj Mahal at 5-1 as a HUGE bargain, but I won't be surprised if he drops to 2-1.
2: *Ocelli's Derby not a fluke (97 Beyer), should be comfortable with the config.
3: Crupper could start fast, but just doesn't have the speed.
4: Robusta could also be in it at the start, but has faded badly in his last 2 G1 stakes.
5: Talkin lost ground in all his stakes races - can't get excited.
6: *Chip Honcho is a fair finisher with early speed, though he faded in the Louisiana Derby. If he can stay out of trouble, watch out.
7: The Hell We Did lacks top speed. Unremarkable.
8: *Watched Bull by the Horns in the Rushaway. Strong finish. Best Beyer is 85, but I love him as a longshot.
9: *Iron Honor - Nice run in the Gotham, but gassed in the Wood (may have been eased?). OK, if you think he's rested.
10: *Napoleon Solo - best overall stakes background, but it'll be crowded, not a good finishing kick. Maybe?
11: Corona de Oro didn't excel in maiden races - out.
12: *Incredibolt - only other 100 Beyer in the race, plus some good works. 'twill be crowded mid-race, not enough time for finishing kick? Puzzling.
13: Great White faded badly in Blue Grass. Laurel not welcoming path. Pass.
14: Pretty Boy Miah just has a small-time feel, though he did hit a 95 Beyer. Bad course, bad post.
So............
I pick Taj Mahal as the winner. Probably too low odds to bet to win, but he'll kill any exotic that he's not part of.
Longshot - Bull by the Horns to win. Should also be in some exotics.
Exotic mixers - Taj Mahal, Ocelli, Chip Honcho, Bull by the Horns, Iron Honor, Napoleon Solo, Incredibolt
Anyone else care to take a shot? Replies: There have been no replies.