PLAYING THE PONIES
Sam Houston Race Park selections for Friday, Jan. 17
Jan 17, 2020, 6:35 am
PLAYING THE PONIES
Here are my selections for Friday night at Sam Houston Race Park. These are not meant to be in exact order, but merely the four horses I think have the best chance to win. For beginners, I suggest exacta boxes with three horses, using two of mine and one of your own. And you can always pick up a copy of Acing Racing 2016 to learn everything you need to know. (These are the picks and format that are available on the free tip sheet at SHRP).
FIRST
1-8-6-5
Strong entry should be favored but price will be short
SECOND
3-1-2-4
DANCING WAVES takes a step up but fits here and will be a solid price
THIRD
2-4-1-3
ALWAYS GRACE drops in class and could upset the heavy favorite
FOURTH
6-2-3-10
SHELLEY'S DREAM has been knocking on the door but fits well here
FIFTH
1-8-10-2
SLEW TANG CLAN struggled in a tough group in last but this is a better spot
SIXTH
1-6-8-4
LONE STAR LADY heads a talented entry that should be in the mix
SEVENTH
5-3-6-10
LIL BIG MAN has been solid on the turf and could pop here at a price
EIGHTH
7-11-2-3
TA should improve in this spot and offers some value
NINTH
7-1-8-6
ALPHA TO OMEGA is consistent and should be in the mix
TENTH
10-12-14-9
JOMO should be a nice price in a race that should produce a good payoff
Cristian Javier and Luis Garcia are back on the mound, but can they actually help the Houston Astros this season?
Javier made his first rehab start in the Florida Complex League (FCL), his first appearance since undergoing Tommy John surgery, and the results weren’t promising.
He struck out two but gave up three runs and reported some elbow soreness afterward. He’s expected to use his full 30-day rehab window.
Meanwhile, Luis Garcia had a slightly better outing, striking out four in his own FCL appearance. But with the Astros dealing with a wave of long-term pitching injuries, fans are left wondering: Are these arms just rusty, or not ready at all?
Be sure to watch the video below as ESPN Houston's John Granato and Lance Zierlein break down both pitchers’ status, what their timelines look like, and whether Astros fans should have hope or concerns about their returns.
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