Locking in plays for Belmont at the Big A on May 9: focusing on two key spots—Race 7 (Ruffian Stakes) and Race 9 (Peter Pan Stakes). I'll give my top pick, two backups, and the trip I want to see for each.

Ruffian (Race 7): Top pick is #6 Irish Maxima (5-1) — prefer a mid-pack, ground-saving trip with Pennington tucking in and launching a long sustained run late. Second is #3 Eunomia (6-5) — needs a clean break and an inside, ground-saving journey to be in contention. Long shot is #1 Cassiar (10-1) — use the rail, try to get brave early and force others to chase.

Peter Pan (Race 9): Top pick is #2 Azam (10-1) — sit just behind the speed, be patient, and let the stretch distance pay off when turning for home. Second is #5 Talk To Me Jimmy (9-5) — controlled stalking trip, mid-pack, methodical move into the far turn. Third is #1 Treadsetter (3-1) — clean break from the rail, build into the race and pick up momentum down the backstretch.

Recap: Ruffian — Irish Maxima, Eunomia, Cassiar. Peter Pan — Azam, Talk To Me Jimmy, Treadsetter. Good luck with your tickets. Cashin’ w/ the Wolf — it’s howling time.