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The Smarty Jones Stakes, a pivotal event in the Road to the Kentucky Derby series, unfolds this Saturday at Oaklawn Park. This 1 1/16-mile race will showcase promising 3-year-olds, offering valuable insights into which horses have the potential to excel in future derbies. With stakes races like the Southwest, Rebel, and Arkansas Derbies on the horizon, this competition is a critical stepping stone for both trainers and jockeys.

Unveiling Future Champions: A Crucial Milestone for Rising Talent

Spotlight on Kale’s Angel: A Force to Reckon With

Kale’s Angel has emerged as a formidable contender, having secured an impressive victory in the Advent Stakes just weeks ago. Trainer Peter Miller's strategic prowess, combined with jockey Ramon Vasquez's skillful riding, positions Kale’s Angel as the horse to beat. In his last outing, Kale’s Angel demonstrated exceptional tactical speed, taking the lead from the outside post position and finishing 5 ¾ lengths ahead of the pack. His Equibase Speed Figure of 109, significantly higher than previous Smarty Jones winners, underscores his readiness for this challenge. Moreover, Miller's track record of success with young horses, such as And Tell Me Nolies, bolsters confidence in Kale’s Angel's ability to maintain top form.The colt's adaptability to longer distances adds another layer of intrigue. While some may question his stamina, the evidence suggests otherwise. Kale’s Angel's performance in the Advent Stakes, where he dominated over a shorter distance, indicates that he can handle the increased mileage required for the Smarty Jones Stakes. With a strong team behind him and a proven track record, Kale’s Angel stands out as a leading candidate to watch.

Coal Battle: Proven Success with Room for Growth

Coal Battle has been steadily building momentum, securing consecutive victories in the Springboard Mile and Jean Laffite Stakes. His recent improvement from an 87 to a 96 Equibase Speed Figure showcases his potential for even greater achievements. Under the guidance of jockey Juan Vargas, Coal Battle has displayed remarkable resilience, overcoming initial challenges to emerge victorious. For this race, projections suggest he could achieve a figure around 105, placing him within striking distance of Kale’s Angel.The key to Coal Battle's success lies in his versatility and adaptability. Having excelled in both sprint and route races, he demonstrates the flexibility needed to thrive in diverse conditions. If the early pace proves faster than average, Coal Battle's tactical approach could give him an edge. His consistent performances and upward trajectory make him a serious contender in this competitive field.

Hot Property: A Dark Horse with Hidden Potential

Trainer Brad Cox, known for his mastery in preparing derby hopefuls, brings Hot Property into the fray. Despite a modest Equibase Speed Figure of 85, Hot Property's pedigree and recent maturation hint at untapped potential. Last year, Cox guided Catching Freedom to victory after a fourth-place finish, illustrating his ability to unlock a horse's true capabilities. Similarly, Caddo River's triumph in 2021 followed a strong mile win, mirroring Hot Property's current trajectory.Hot Property's half-sister, Actress, earned nearly $600,000 with wins in prestigious events like the Comely and Black Eyed Susan Stakes. This lineage suggests that Hot Property possesses the genetic makeup to perform at elite levels. Although he needs to improve significantly to reach the 100+ figure typically required for Smarty Jones success, the possibility of a breakthrough cannot be overlooked. Given Cox's expertise and Hot Property's improving form, he remains a dark horse worth watching.

Bon Temps and Others: The Long Shot Contenders

While Kale’s Angel, Coal Battle, and Hot Property command attention, other entrants bring their own narratives to the table. Bon Temps, despite not winning yet, shows promise as he stretches out to two turns for the first time. Curvino, Hot Gunner, Optical, and Mo Quality each bring unique strengths to the race. Curvino's recent route race victory and Optical's 92 Equibase Speed Figure highlight their competitiveness. Mo Quality's pattern of improvement, including a second-place debut before a recent win, suggests he could surprise.Bon Temps, although unproven, has shown flashes of potential. His lack of wins so far does not diminish his prospects entirely. Each horse in this field contributes to the rich tapestry of possibilities, making the Smarty Jones Stakes an exciting and unpredictable event. The stage is set for these young talents to showcase their abilities and stake their claim in the Road to the Kentucky Derby.