Ellis Park Spot Plays for Friday, August 2

Race 5 – GREELEY AND BEN (#3) (6-1 ML) A sneaky good performer on dirt his entire career, he tried two turns on turf against a formidable field last out and didn’t disgrace himself. Off four lengths slow, he was hung in a stalking position three-wide behind an honest pace and raced evenly. He returns to dirt, should relish seven furlongs, and he should fly a little under the radar. Worth a win, triple-place wager at odds of 9-2 or better. Key first and second in exactas and trifectas with all. Race 6 – TELL YOUR DADDY (#4) (5-1 ML) Took a huge step forward in his fourth career start. Stalking a controlled pace midpack, he made a bold, middle move. Hung five-wide on the turn, he kept coming and rallied into second behind the gate-to-wire winner. He’s trained sharply since and should have an honest pace to kick at. Win, place and show ladder at odds of 5-1 or better. Play in gimmicks with 1, 2, 7, 9, 10 and 11. Race 7 – PREACHER POWER (#2) (8-1 ML) A very consistent performer on turf, he ran better than it looks last out. Racing on the rail near the back of the pack behind an even pace over a turf course that slightly favored speed, he would finish with good energy behind a sharp winner. He should be in position to save ground again in this one and the early pace should be more honest. Win, place and show ladder at odds of 5-1 or better. Play in gimmicks with 5, 6, 7, 8 and 11. Race 8 – MR. TICKLE (#4) (5-1 ML) Four of his five career wins have come on dirt, but I’ll argue that he’s actually a better horse on grass. He fits well off the re-claim and looms as the one to beat. Don’t be fooled by the 5-1 morning line, he’ll likely go favored. Win and triple-place at odds of 5-2 or better and a potential single in the multi-race wagers. PHOTO: Ellis Park (c) Coady Photography/Ellis Park