NYRA Preview: Aqueduct 12/28

Race 1: $60,000 MSW for New-York-bred fillies and mares 3-year-old and upward going 6 furlongs on the dirt

The big question coming into this race is: Will #7 Doll finally cross the finish line first? She has been a favorite in four out of five of her career starts; three of which came here at the Big A. Early speed for her hasn’t been the issue for this filly out of the Jason Servis barn. It’s Jose Lezcano’s job to get her to the lead and slow down the pace as much as possible to keep her going strong down the stretch.

Ricky’s Picks: 7-2-1-3

Race 3: $62,000 MSW for 2-year-olds going 7 furlongs on the dirt

Jason Servis might have a very capable 2-year-old by Malibu Moon in #5 Magic Carpet. His debut didn’t go as planned as he broke away third out of the gate and slowly moved up throughout the race. No one was catching Default Rate on that day who ended up getting placed fourth as he did not stay on the straight and narrow in the stretch. Magic Carpet broke away well and showed early speed. I wouldn’t expect him to be anywhere near the 5/1 morning line odds he was given at post-time.

Ricky’s Picks: 5-7-8-9

Race 6: $60,000 MSW for New-York-bred 2-year-olds going 6 1/2 furlongs on the dirt

Had #2 More Graytful been gone 6 1/2 furlongs in his debut, he would be out of the maiden special weight ranks right away. Joel Rosario was on the best horse in the race as More Graytful hit his head on the gate at the start. He was forced five-wide into the turn and battled on gamely with the eventual winner Convict. There is no one who can compete with More Graytful in this spot as he looks to close late in this deep field of 12.

Ricky’s Picks: 2-7-10-5