How to bet with, and against, Americanrevolution in the Cigar Mile

An excellent cast of eight has been assembled to contest the $750,000 Cigar Mile H. (G1) at Aqueduct on Saturday. The feature caps a superb card at the Big A, and looks to be a highly competitive contest on paper.

Todd Pletcher will saddle two contenders in the race, led by morning-line favorite #3 Americanrevolution (5-2). He's been dominant when facing foes state-breds in New York, accumulating facile wins in the New York Derby, Albany S., and Empire Classic, the latter by 11 lengths while registering a jaw-dropping 118 Brisnet Speed figure.

The son of Constitution is 4-for-5 this campaign, with his lone defeat coming when a good third in the Pennsylvania Derby (G1) two races prior. And although it may be minor, it is worth noting that the sophomore will receive a weight break from five of his major foes on Saturday. Regular pilot Luis Saez has the call.

I liked #1 Following Sea (5-1) in the Breeders’ Cup Sprint (G1) when he checked in a sharp third at 20-1, and I believe that he is also well meant in this race for Pletcher. Talented son of Runhappy was asked to do too much, too soon earlier in the year, but the Vosburgh S. (G2) victor appears to be in great current form. Spendthrift Farm color bearer should handle the move to one mile with ease under Johnny V.

2019 Travers S. (G1) star #4 Code of Honor (6-1) has a world of back class to him for conditioner Shug McGaughey. Noble Mission chestnut is training well and poised for a big showing in what is likely his final career race. Tyler Gaffalione will be in the stirrups.

I understand that #7 Olympiad (10-1) would be a surprise to upset this field, but I have always been quite high on the colt and expect a strong showing from him on Saturday. Mott pupil has run well in two straight following a one-year absence, and the son of Speightstown figures to get a nice set up just off the pace to the top of the lane beneath Rosario.

#6 Ginobili (7-2) was a fine runner-up in the Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile (G1) most recently for Baltas. Munnings gelding has turned into a new animal in his last trio of races since adding blinkers. I do have concerns, however, that he may be something of a Del Mar specialist, and it’s also possible he regresses some following a trio of huge tries in succession. Drayden Van Dyke comes in to ride.

Americanrevolution – With

• $2 trifecta 3 with 1,4,7 with all ($36)
• $1 trifecta 3 with all with 1,4,7 ($18)

Americanrevolution – Against

• $6 exacta key box 1 with 4,7 ($24)
• $1 trifecta 1,4 with 1,4,7 with all ($24)