It’s the feature race of the day and one of the most important preps for the Travers — The Jim Dandy Stakes, going a mile and an eighth on the dirt for three-year-olds. It’s a compact field of five, but don’t let the size fool you — there’s some serious quality here, headlined by one of the biggest names in the division.

Let’s break it down the Aces & Races way.

🔥 The Horse to Beat

Sovereignty is back and looking to tighten the screws for the Travers. He’s already won the Kentucky Derby and the Belmont, and he returns to the Spa with a big target on his back. Trained by Bill Mott and piloted by Junior Alvarado, this colt does everything right — tactical speed, stamina, and a strong late kick. In a five-horse field, he should get a perfect stalking trip and prove tough to reel in when the real running begins.

💣 The Main Threats

Baeza is no stranger to Sovereignty — he’s been knocking heads with him all spring. He was right there in both the Derby and Belmont, and while he hasn’t gotten by him yet, this could be the race where he takes a step forward. Trainer John Shirreffs has him sharp, and with Hector Berrios back aboard, they’ll be looking to flip the script.

Sandman adds blinkers and could be sneaky here. He hasn’t run since finishing third in the Preakness, but he’s working like he means business. Jose Ortiz takes the call for Mark Casse, and if there’s a bit of a pace meltdown, he’s the one who could come rolling late.

🕶️ The Wildcards

Mo Plex has the most early speed in this field and could try to take them all the way. He comes off a nice win in the Ohio Derby and is trained by Jeremiah Englehart. If they let him get comfortable on the front end, don’t be surprised if he makes it interesting turning for home.

Hill Road rounds out the field. Irad and Chad always command respect, but this runner looks a bit overmatched on paper. That said, in a small field, anything can happen — especially if the others underestimate him.

🧠 Aces Strategy

We’re siding with Sovereignty as the clear top choice. He has the class, the trip, and the set-up. But there’s a little value to be had playing underneath with Baeza and Sandman, and Mo Plex could shake things up if he gets brave on the front end.

💰 Suggested Bets

• Win Bet: Sovereignty

• Exacta Box: Sovereignty, Baeza, Sandman

• Trifecta: Sovereignty on top, with Baeza and Sandman underneath — Mo Plex in the third spot if you’re getting creative

This is a Travers preview in disguise, and it’s going to tell us a lot about how the late summer will shape up. Let me know who you’re riding with — drop your picks in the comments or join the Discord for full-card plays and tickets.

Let’s cash something big in the Jim Dandy!

— Ace