BetAmerica’s horse racing pick of the day: April 7, Will Rogers

Weekday picks and plays for Thoroughbred racing.

Tuesday, April 7

Will Rogers Downs, Race 9: Highland Ice S. (6 furlongs, 6:15 p.m. ET)

#5 Nero (2-1 on the morning line) is arguably dropping in class, after he hit the board in three straight allowance sprints at Oaklawn Park.

Twice placed at the Grade 2 level, Nero has long shown flashes of talent, but the son of Pioneerof the Nile has trouble staying focused and occasionally eases up after he takes the lead, which has likely cost him a victory or two.

Rather than rely on Nero to get the job done at a short price, let’s box him in the exacta, with the speedy #1 Minister of Soul (3-1), the runaway winner of a 5 1/2-furlong allowance at Turf Paradise on Feb. 23.

The son of Ministers Wild Cat has knocked heads with some talented sprinters over the last six months, including stakes winners Mr. Jagermeister, Chief Cicatriz, and Mr. Money Bags. Minister of Soul is nearly equal to Nero in terms of Brisnet Speed ratings, and a break from the rail should set him up for a ground-saving trip.

$15 exacta box: 1,5 ($30)

Good luck!