Hanson: Stakes Spot Plays for Mar. 7

If you like stakes, you're going to love the wagering menu available coast-to-coast on Saturday.

While the trio of Kentucky Derby (G1) preps and the historic "Big 'Cap" take center stage, there are quite a few other opportunities available. Here are a few we're taking a look at.

Columbia S. -- Tampa Bay Downs Race 7 (3:18 p.m. EST)

Although it was only at 5 furlongs, #2 SUMMER ASSAULT's (6-1) debut victory over this course was fairly strong. Didn't quite last in an off-the-turf allowance next out despite getting to set a moderate pace against three rivals, but was a clear second in what was probably a good conditioning effort on the notoriously tiring main track. Back on his preferred surface here and seems quick enough on paper to contend against some of these relative veterans of the stakes wars.

Frank E. Kilroe Mile (G1) -- Santa Anita Race 5 (4:30 p.m. EST)

We endorsed him in this space for the Feb. 8 Thunder Road (G3), but #8 FRONTIER MARKET (6-1) ultimately proved to be no value as he was surprisingly sent off the 5-2 favorite in his first Southern California appearance for owner Kosta Hronis and trainer John Sadler. He made up some ground to cross the wire fifth after a tardy beginning, and is eligible to improve second try over the course at a better price. The addition of blinkers might also help him stay in closer contact.

Tom Fool H. (G3) -- Aqueduct Race 8 (4:46 p.m. EST)

Current fitness is somewhat of an issue for #8 SKYLER'S SCRAMJET (8-1), who hasn't been out since August, but he's fired fresh in the past and has run some really strong races over this track. Two performances that stand out are his victory in the 2018 edition of this race, and his close second to the amazing World of Trouble in last year's Carter H. (G1). Breaks outside the other speed here and can certainly get the jump on likely favorite Mind Control, who shortens up to a distance that might be shorter than his best.

Florida Oaks (G3) -- Tampa Bay Downs Race 10 (4:55 p.m. EST)       

Trainer Arnaud Delacour displaying confidence including #5 CORRECTNESS (20-1) in this field off a mid-December maiden win. Why not? She was a million-dollar yearling purchase for Lael Stable and is by Medaglia d'Oro and from the family of numerous standouts, including the top main-track mare Elate. This race seems wide open on paper, and at the price we'll count on her tremendous upside to help her pull off the upset.