How to bet the 2021 Saratoga Derby

A superb field of 11 will go postward in Saturday’s $1 million Saratoga Derby (G1). The 1 3/16-mile grassy endeavor boasts substantial international flair and it appears that the race will go through the numerous European invaders.

I will give top billing to #7 Secret Protector (6-1) who makes his U.S. debut. The bay son of War Front lacks the resume of a few of his counterparts, but the sophomore is really coming to hand as of late and seems poised for a positive experience at the Spa.

Trained by Charlie Appleby, who can do little wrong when he ships horses to the States, the Godolphin colorbearer stayed on well to be a strong third to Mohaafeth in the Hampton Court S. (G3) going 10 panels at Royal Ascot most recently, and I expect improvement off that showing. Mike Smith will guide the top selection and have the $800,000 yearling purchase tracking the tempo while never too far back early on.

Group 2 winner #4 Cadillac (4-1), who was fourth in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf (G1) in the fall, kicked off his three-year-old campaign with a game tally at the Curragh last time out. Jessica Harrington pupil will be dangerous in his second trek to the states with regular rider Shane Foley making the trip to guide the Lope De Vega colt.

Belmont Derby (G1) victor #6 Bolshoi Ballet (2-1) will take a lot of money on Saturday following his sharp score in his U. S. bow last time out. The son of Galileo showed push-button acceleration most recently to win like a good one, but I don’t feel that Irish-bred toppled a very strong field on that occasion, and he will get a tougher test in the Saratoga Derby. I will limit his inclusion to the vertical exotics.

Of the domestic runners, Rusty Arnold’s #8 Cellist (12-1) intrigues me at a big number. The bay son of Big Blue Kitten was a stubborn third in the Belmont Derby when making his graded debut, and I love that he has improved his Brisnet Speed figure in each career outing to date. Colt has gate presence and will get first run on the late runners under Leparoux.

Saratoga Derby Wagers

• $15 win and place #7 Secret Protector ($30)
• 50-cent superfecta 7 with 4,6,8 with 4,6,8 all ($24)
• $1 trifecta 4,7 with 4,7 with all ($18)