Friday at Belmont: Garrity picks the 7th, 8th and 9th races

We have three plays today, all at Belmont Park, where we are expecting fast dirt and firm turf. Let’s go.

Belmont Park, Race 7, 4:32 pm ET

Allowance/Optional Claiming, 7 furlongs, Turf, New York-bred Fillies & Mares 3 & Up

Nine state-breds go in this second-level allowance. We like a longshot, 1-Fetching. She’s been running in longer races at a mile or more, and we think the cutback to 7 furlongs should suit her very well. We also think the pace will favor her: she’s a stretch-runner in a race with plenty of early speed. Look for her to be toward the rear of the field early, and flying late. We will bet her to win at 10-1. The bet: Belmont Park, Race 7, $35 to win on 1-Fetching.

Belmont Park, Race 8, 5:04 pm ET

Allowance/Optional Claiming, 6½ furlongs, Dirt, New York-breds 3 & Up

After scratches, seven will go to the post here. 9-The Caretaker is a strong play: He has competitive speed figures, he has a coveted outside post in this one-turn race, and most important, we expect the shape of the race to favor him: he should get a good stalking trip behind a very, very fast early pace, and being on the outside, he can rally when the pacesetters begin to shorten stride. We will bet him to win at 4-1. The bet: Belmont Park, Race 8, $40 to win on 9-The Caretaker.

Belmont Park, Race 9, 5:36 pm ET

$80,000 Sir Cat Stakes, 6 furlongs, Turf, 3-Year-Olds

We played this race for our contest pick, but we like it enough that we’re going to double up here. We like 4-Guildsman to win by coming from off our pace, and we like Guildsman enough that we will loosen the rubber band around the bankroll. We will bet him to win at 7/2. The bet: Belmont Park, Race 9, $50 to win on 4-Guildsman.

That’s all for today. Until tomorrow, enjoy the racing, be safe, and, as always, good luck at the windows.