Superstar Palace Malice Looms Over Grade I Whitney Field

Unbeaten since his return as a four year-old, Palace Malice has been ultra-impressive for trainer Todd Pletcher collecting a grade III win, two grade two victories, and a Grade I in four starts this year.  Three wins of those wins came at the one mile distance, while the Grade II New Orleans Handicap score was at a mile and an eighth – the same distance as the Whitney.  Distance is of little concern anyway to Palace Malice who won the Grade I Belmont Stakes at a mile and half as a three year-old.

Palace Malice clearly the one to beat 

Palace Malice has posted Beyer speed figures of 114, 113, and 111 in his last three starts and has recorded triple digit Beyers in his last eight starts.  No runner in this field comes close to matching that kind of consistency or brilliance.  Palace Malice has also shown a versatile running style and can be anywhere jockey John Valazquez prefers.  He has also performed well at Saratoga in the past with two wins in three lifetimes starts including the Grade II Jim Dandy last year. 

Will Take Charge tries to rebound 

4/1 second choice Will Take Charge certainly cannot be dismissed, but last year’s runner-up in the Breeder’s Cup Classic must rebound from back to back subpar starts for Hall of Fame trainer D. Wayne Lukas.  A return to his best form, however, would make Will Take Charge a serious contender in the Whitney.