Under the Radar Breeders’ Cup Contenders: Saturday

A total of nine Breeders’ Cup World Championship events will take place on Saturday at Santa Anita. While some of the Grade 1 contests look like the morning-line choices might run to their odds, there are still numerous value contenders on the card.

Race 5 – Filly and Mare Sprint (G1)

I admittedly know very little about Japanese import #6 Meikei Yell (15-1), but I thought that this field came up fairly soft for the level and will give the mare a chance in her dirt debut, especially since the horse to beat got a tricky rail post. The multiple Group 2 heroine had a fine 2022, and she could be rounding into form this season following a good try in the Sprinters S. (G1) at Nakayama last time out. The Mikki Isle five-year-old will be dangerous if she takes to the main surface. 

Race 8 – Turf (G1)

Japanese invader #1 Shahryar (12-1) has been pointing towards this race all season, and while his two showings in 2023 have been below his standards, I expect the five-year-old to peak on Saturday. The dark bay son of Deep Impact is well drawn inside and has plenty of back class to prove that he belongs with this cast. The 2022 Sheema Classic (G1) star would not be a surprise in a superb field.