PLAYING THE PONIES
Sam Houston Race Park selections for Monday, May 20
May 20, 2019, 6:00 am
PLAYING THE PONIES
Here are my selections for Monday. 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
6-7-3-4
HEZA ROCKIN ACE is the most accomplished runner in the field
SECOND
1-5-7-6
TACKY PLACES has faced tough company and could surprise
THIRD
3-4-2-1
JJ BAR has been consistent and should be in the mix
FOURTH
6-1-4-3
LADEE DYNASTY might be ready for a big effort in debut
FIFTH
7-9-8-3
YOUR FAMOUS HIPS should improve in start No. 2
SIXTH
2-5-3-7
AGAPIE was overmatched in last but should be in the mix here
SEVENTH
3-7-5-6
AP FIRST FLIGHT rates a slim edge in a competitive group
EIGHTH
4-9-10-1
DASHIN RARE has been steadily improving and maybe today is the day
NINTH
7-3-4-6
RC BO REIDL should improve in this spot
As we begin another week of MLB free agency, we still haven't seen any movement when it comes to Alex Bregman. Several reports are indicating that the market for Bregman is being impacted by Orioles outfielder Anthony Santander.
The thought being, Santander is expected to command less than Bregman, and teams are waiting to see how his market shakes out before making an offer to Breggy.
Which is interesting, because we're seeing reports about Santander softening his stance on demanding a four or five year deal. It appears he's willing to consider a shorter contract with a high yearly salary.
If that is indeed the case, should the Astros consider moving some salary if they can come to an agreement on a short-term deal with Santander?
In theory, trading Pressly's $14 million contract along with Victor Caratini's $6 million dollar deal could allow them to pay Santander $20 million. Of course finding a club to take on all of Pressly's money may not be realistic, but if they could pull it off, should they do it?
This move would weaken the bullpen and the depth at catcher, but the team still has Caesar Salazar to back up Yainer Diaz. And both Pressly and Caratini aren't likely to be back with the Astros anyway after their contracts expire after the 2025 season.
Should we be worried about the Rangers?
MLB Network's Robert Flores (huge Astros fan) joined the Locked on Astros YouTube channel last week and said he likes the Rangers chances to win the AL West this year, despite Vegas giving Houston better odds to win the World Series. Does he have a point?
Farewell to Justin Verlander
Verlander signed a one-year deal with the Giants last week, so it appears he's played his last game in an Astros uniform. But should we close the door on him being traded to Houston again if the 'Stros need another starter and the Giants are looking to move him at the deadline?
Plus, we share some of our favorite Verlander moments from the team's dynastic run!
Be sure to watch the video above as the guys from Stone Cold 'Stros break it all down! And be sure to share your favorite Verlander memories in the comment section on YouTube.