Mahoning Valley: Horse racing pick of the day for Dec. 21

Weekday picks and plays for Thoroughbred racing.

Monday, Dec. 21

Mahoning Valley, Race 2: Allowance (6 furlongs, 1:12 p.m. ET)

#4 Tio Perico (2-1 on the morning line) has been on fire since the end of summer and has crossed the wire first or second in six consecutive races. The 3-year-old gelding possesses abundant tactical speed, coupled with the ability to rate off the lead if necessary, and his Brisnet Speed ratings have been steadily ascending.

Tio Perico was particularly sharp in a $7,500 claiming race at Mahoning Valley three weeks ago, when he led by daylight at every call to score by 3 3/4 lengths. The 94 Brisnet Speed rating he posted is tied for the highest figure in Monday’s field. Trainer Jason DaCosta and apprentice jockey Yarmarie Correa have combined to win at a 38% rate over the last two months, which stamps Tio Perico as the horse to beat.

#7 Totellyouthetruth (5-2), a veteran 5-year-old with competitive Brisnet Speed ratings on his résumé, can round out the exacta for trainer Michael Rone. Totellyouthetruth has disappointed in a trio of recent runs on sloppy tracks, but he can bounce back with a return to dry footing.

$25 exacta: 4 with 7

Good luck!