Breeders' Cup Big Bet Battle Royale - Pat O'Brien Selections

One of the exciting contest & promotions at TwinSpires.com, the $15,000 Breeders’ Cup Big Bet Battle Royale is offering Players the opportunity to win a VIP Trip to the Breeders’ Cup at Keeneland and a $10,000 Win bet on the Breeders’ Cup Classic.

In order to qualify final round Battle Royale on October 3-4, TwinSpires Players need to cash a winning $15 wager on three of the designated Breeders’ Cup “Win and You’re In” races during one of the first two qualifying rounds (August 1-31 and September 1-30). Please see the contest rules for further details.

The Editorial team at brisnet.com is getting involved in the fun, providing selections for the remaining contest races. Here are their thoughts on Saturday’s Pat O’Brien:

Vance Hanson: Going back to the days of Polytrack, there's something about Del Mar that brings out the best in WILD DUDE (#3). The five-year-old has two wins and a second in three starts over the main track, his only loss coming against the immensely-talented Goldencents in his debut. Wild Dude admittedly got a perfect stalk-and-pounce trip behind a very fast pace last time in the Bing Crosby (G1), and wound up beating the highly-rated Masochistic by 1 1/4 lengths. He won't be anywhere near 11-1 this time and figures to be closer to a slightly slower pace, but proved in the San Carlos (G2) in March he can win in that scenario. $15 to win on #3.

Ed DeRosa: Short field, long price? TURNOVER (#1) had all sorts of trouble last out in the slop, and his best race was going six furlongs on fast dirt. I’ll bet my $15 that he can run back to that 106 in this spot. $15 to win on #1.

James Scully: APPEALING TALE (#2) still lacks a stakes win on his resume but the 5yo gelding will enter the Pat O’Brien in career-best form, registering BRIS Speed ratings of 101-105-103 in his last three outings, and could be poised for a breakthrough following commendable runner-up efforts in the Triple Bend (G1) and San Diego (G2). The Peter Miller trainee will be on or close to the lead from the start and Appealing Tale doesn’t appear to be facing stout competition in this short field. $15 to win on #2.

Kellie Reilly: KOBE'S BACK (#5) is back at his optimal seven-furlong trip, the distance of his victories in the 2014 San Vicente (G2) and the April 4 Commonwealth (G3) at Keeneland. A hard-charging third after flubbing the start in the Bing Crosby (G1) last out, the Peter Eurton charge racked up a 109 BRIS Late Pace rating that's reflective of his punch. The late runner should appreciate the extra furlong, and the presumably contentious pace. $15 to win on #5.