Steve Matthews' Belmont at the Big A selections for Thursday, Oct. 30
Best bet: FRIC AND FRAC (8)
Best value: THE LAST PAGE (5)
FIRST: Never Heather projects as the main speed with quick getaway from the rail. Grit N Glitter could be the prime beneficiary if top selection wilts. Sparkling Mama is fleet-footed and must be factored into the mix.
SECOND: Fonzi Angel should move forward with return to dirt. Magic in My Eyes was a sharp second in debut; dangerous. Factory Setting is training with a purpose for second start for Chad Brown; signature pattern.
THIRD: Yo Banana Boy drilled twice since game placing in last; more to give. National Identity could be in the garden spot if top selection hits the wall in the stretch. Braciole could impact at beefy number if pace meltdown ensues.
FOURTH: Absolute Smoke was an improved third in last; takes another forward step. Hot Currency, from the white-hot Linda Rice barn, adds blinkers after regressing in last; big-time player. Hire the Hat debuts for capable first-out barn; follow the money.
FIFTH: The Last Page gets added ground after useful sixth in debut. Lexington Pike displayed improved speed in last; dangerous. Mr Browns Town makes first turf start for Chad Brown; could easily take this.
SIXTH: Power Seeker is fresh and logs fast figures on "A" efforts. Kuchar drops and returns to dirt; worth long look. Best Bet is speedy and could prove very tough on a soft lead.
SEVENTH: Collect the Data owns swift numbers and can win from on or off the pace. Monetary Monarch is training with a purpose for first start in more than eight months; price will be tempting. Midtown Lights is a front-running threat on best efforts.
EIGHTH: Fric and Frac is from a dam that has thrown two turf winners and jockey-trainer combo is 2-for-5 in last 60 days. Pazz the Soy Sauce is speedy and could prove tough to collar on an unchallenged lead. Orie could be the prime beneficiary if pace meltdown ensues. Makeyourmoment should pack intensified wallop with cutback to sprint.
