Xpressbet editor-in-chief Jeremy Plonk offers his top plays for Thursday.
Laurel Park Race 6 // 3:06 pm ET
#5 John the Bear (10-1 ML)
Longshot look to runner who has done all his best running at Laurel Park. He returns from a 2 1/2-month layoff for a Ferris Allen barn that won 2 races last week, including a 23-1 upsetter who also was coming back after an extended break. Win bet.
Churchill Downs race 9 // 5:06 pm ET
#3 Doctor Nash (7-2 ML)
Trainer Brad Cox is exceptional when asking his young 2-year-olds to stretch out to a route distance for the first time. He'll try that same move with well-drawn Doctor Nash, who can save ground from a favorable, inside post position draw. Win bet.