Fires Still Burning at Del Mar

The Oceanside Stakes, Del Mar’s traditional opening-day feature, has been split into divisions. The second half of the one-mile turf race, which serves as the first prep for the Del Mar Derby later in the meet, is the stronger contest. The card will also feature a rare California appearance by veteran jockey Earlie Fires, who will be inducted Aug. 6 into racing’s Hall of Fame.

Race of the day: The second division of the Oceanside is probably the day’s best race, but the most interesting might be the third. The five-furlong sprint for 2-year-olds brings out Shingen Trick and first-time starters Sunray Spirit, Ecstatic and Historic Speech.

Who’s hot: With 32 victories, Bob Baffert more than doubled the total of his nearest pursuer in the trainer’s race in 2000.

Who’s not: This wasn’t a particularly strong meet for jockey Chance Rollins last year. He won with only five of 112 mounts.

Track conditions: Del Mar has renovated its turf course, which was in horrendous shape last year, so it will be interesting to see how the grass plays--whether it favors speed or the late runners.

HOLLYWOOD PARK LEADERS

JOCKEYS

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Jockey Wins % In Money% Pincay 64 .23 .51 Solis 63 .20 .52 Baze 53 .16 .38 McCarron 39 .24 .59 Pedroza 38 .19 .52 Espinoza 35 .15 .44 Delahoussaye 34 .16 .44 Flores 27 .15 .49

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TRAINERS

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Trainer Wins % In Money% Carava 22 .24 .66 Baffert 21 .18 .52 Frankel 17 .19 .60 Mandella 17 .19 .49 Cerin 15 .24 .63 McAnally 14 .17 .46 Spawr 13 .17 .47 Sise 13 .21 .54

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