As it typically does, the Oceanside Stakes drew a full field on opening day at Del Mar on Wednesday. Here is a look at the main contenders:
2-TEXAS WEDGE (9-2) has met the Brisnet speed figure par for this race in four of his five starts, but has yet to win around two turns — or even try. In fact, his longest win came at 5 ½ furlongs on the dirt and, given his subpar late speed rations (LSRs), I’ll look elsewhere for the winner, but keep this guy in the exotics mix.
3-PEPE TONTO (20-1) ran well in his turf debut and has faced graded company in the recent past. I think this guy has a big shot at a big price!
5-DESERT STONE (4-1) is the tepid 4-1 morning line choice and his superior LSRs make him a big threat.
7-RESTRAINEDVENGENCE (20-1) takes the blinkers off, which makes him intriguing in this spot, as his LSRs are relatively good.
9-MOVE OVER (6-1) looked really good in the ungraded Singletary, but his latest LSR (-8) gives me pause.
10-CALEXMAN (6-1) could be the speed of the speed in a relatively paceless affair (projected -4 early speed ration). He earned a +2 LSR in his only route try and must be considered.
16-RISKY PROPOSITION (20-1) would need to improve, but I think he’s better than his 20-1 morning line odds suggest.
