Xpressbet writer Jeff Siegel offers his top plays for Saturday.
Belmont at the Big A Race No. 7 (3:48 p.m. ET/12:48 p.m. PT)
#6 Be Better (6-1)
Makes his first start on grass (bred for it) and can pull off a mild surprise in this year’s edition of the Hill Prince Stakes with a repeat of his fast, highly rated allowance victory at Monmouth Park two races back. Has the type of tactical speed that will have him on or near what promises to be a moderate pace and, assuming he takes to the lawn, should be capable of kicking home from there. At 6-1 on the morning line, he offers an excellent gamble in the Win pool and in the various rolling exotics.
Santa Anita Race No. 3 (5:02 p.m. ET/2:02 p.m. PT)
#3 Runninwitheboyz (10-1)
Let’s take a swing with a 10-1 shot in this maiden $50,000 claiming turf sprint for older fillies and mares. This 3-year-old filly by Liam’s Map switches to trainer Jeff Mullins, drops from straight maiden to maiden claiming and moves from the dirt to turf after displaying speed in a much tougher spot last time out at Del Mar in an effort that was better than the line will show. Against this level of competition, she most likely will display enough early speed to be on or near the lead, so at the price she offers long shot value in a below par race for the level.