CHILL BUDDY

Six days ago, over the same distance, this horse led but maintained a steady pace without a strong finishing burst. He was beaten two and a half lengths and finished sixth. Racing again in two weeks, he has dropped 22 pounds in body weight. This time he’ll carry three extra pounds, faces good competition within his group, and drew an inside barrier. The plan is to settle back in the field, relying on a strong finishing kick; he appears to have a competitive advantage over other runners. Andrea Atzeni takes the ride, having some familiarity with the horse, and trainer-jockey relationship is reasonable. Expected to contend for second place or better.