Officer Fitted for Cap, Gown

Owner Prince Ahmed Salman’s Thoroughbred Corp. and trainer Bob Baffert won the $125,000 Graduation Stakes a year ago with favored Arabian Light, who disposed of his California-bred rivals. Look for Salman and Baffert to do it again today with another talented Cal bred. Officer, a 2-year-old son of Bertrando purchased this year for $700,000, is expected to dominate the Graduation, which will be run for the 51st time. Bred by Marty and Pam Wygod, Officer broke his maiden by six lengths 19 days ago at Hollywood Park and he should have little trouble remaining unbeaten, then make his presence felt in the tougher 2-year-old stakes later this year. Barring a major surprise, he looks like a free spot in the Pick Four and the Pick Six. Sharper Too, the Jerry Dutton-trained entry of Bid N Ask and Altamont Pass, Crown The King, Rainman’s Request, Phoney Gold and Roberto’s Show complete the field in the 5 1/2-furlong race.

Race of the day: The sixth, an 11-furlong race for older horses on the turf. There are several possibilities, including Flo The Blo, Heyerdahl, Lord Sweeney, Piranesi, Color Me Matt C (who could make the lead), Fade To Blue and Floriselli. Those playing a Pick Four singling Officer could find themselves a price in this contest.

Who’s hot: Trainer Bill Spawr. He began the meet with two victories on opening day and concluded the first week with two victories Monday. He has won with six of 18 starters.

Who’s not: It has been a rough beginning for jockey Garrett Gomez. He was winless in 18 through the first six days.

Exotically speaking: A Pick Four singling Follow My Heineken in the fifth and Officer in the seventh. We’ll spread the sixth using Flo The Blo, Lord Sweeney, Heyerdahl, Color Me Matt C and Floriselli, then use Classy Cajun, You Da Mon, Thrillion and Gray Rebel in the eighth.