How to bet the First State Dash Stakes

The Wednesday feature at Delaware Park is the $100,000 First State Dash S., a six-furlong heat for juveniles that attracted a cast of seven. This is a fairly talented group of youngsters, and I feel that the morning-line choice could be vulnerable at short odds in the event. 

First State Wagers

• $5 trifecta key 5 with 4,6,7 ($30)
• 50-cent superfecta 5 with 4,6,7 with 4,6,7 with all ($12)

My top pick is #5 It’s Hammertime (3-1) for sharp juvenile conditioner Gary Capuano. The chestnut son of freshman sire Vekoma debuted on June 4 at Delaware Park, and while he is a late foal, the colt looked pretty professional during his unveiling. Sent postward at 13-10 odds at first asking, the youngster broke best of all, but then took back to let a foe lead the way to the top of the lane. The Maryland-bred readily passed that one in early stretch and came home swiftly en route to a daylight tally. He shows five solid morning drills as of late and will retain the services of Gabriel Maldonado. 

#6 Schrader (8-1) is a generous price coming off of a strong maiden score at Colonial Downs in his third lifetime endeavor. Hugh McMahon pupil has shown nice improvement with each outing to date, and the Mor Spirit colt is well placed outside of the speed in the field to receive an advantageous voyage in the dash, too. The chestnut appreciated the addition of blinkers in his latest offering and adds value under the top pick with regular pilot Tais Lyapustina in the stirrups. 

#4 Re Markably (8-5) is a deserving favorite coming off a dominant victory in the Dover S. on the course in his most recent showing. The homebred son of Hoppertunity has improved his Brisnet Speed number with every outing to date, and he is also swift from the gate to be forwardly placed from the break. I feel, however, that he’s facing a deeper field on Wednesday compared to his last run, and he is worth trying to beat at an expected short price at post time. John Hiraldo will be up. 

#7 All the Hardways (5-1) has proven to be capable of passing horses in the lane, and the Dover S. runner-up is a logical exotics inclusion for trainer John Robb. Xavier Perez will guide the improving son of Paynter.