Mucho Macho Man grabs Tuesday headlines// Asmussen high on Maclean’s Music// The Factor in same breath as Big Brown, Fusaichi Pegasus?

Summary:

Today was Mucho Macho Man’s day in the press. From appearing lifeless at birth, owners who paid as little as $800 a share, and a trainer who is living a second life on a heart transplant, it’s a guarantee there will be a signature NBC segment on Derby Day// In other Louisiana Derby news, long shot Populist Politics was scratched.  Elite Alex’s trainer Tim Ritchey says the million dollar purse and long stretch were reasons to enter.  He’s currently on the outside looking in to the Derby// Several articles today on Maclean’s Music, the most recent blistering maiden winner at Santa Anita I touched on yesterday.  Trainer Steve Asmussen didn’t rule anything out, but due to timing he may have to point for the Preakness.  The Bloodhorse story has several other good tidbits from Asmussen; Astrology, scheduled to race Sunday in the Sunland Derby, had a delayed start due to illness and he was also not pleased with Garret Gomez’s trip aboard Albergatti in the San Felipe (neither was my wager)// Mike Shutty draws comparisons between The Factor’s performance on Saturday and the second-to-last prep races of Derby winners Big Brown and Fusaichi Pegasus// more…

Stay Thirsty 9-5 favorite in Gotham. Astrology in, Uncle Brent out of Rebel. Mucho confirmed for Louisiana Derby. Any real interest in a Swale Stakes “Challenge”?

Summary:

Nine entries drawn for Gotham, including Stay Thirsty// Many future race decisions were made: Astrology to Rebel, Mucho Macho Man to Louisiana Derby, and maiden winner Albergatti to San Felipe// Uncle Brent has new trainer and will not go in Rebel// The most interesting story from today is the “Swale Challenge” idea from the owner of Flashpoint.  While a matchup with the Factor would be nice, I’m not sure that’s worth one million for Gulfstream.   We’re not talking about Zenyatta vs. Rachel.  Many general racing fans have probably never heard of these three year olds. Also, who is going to back either of those horses in the Derby coming off of two sprint preps and questions surrounding pedigree?