In a fit of creative brilliance and originality Hank Wesch has chosen “change” as the byword for his '08 Del Mar fantasy betting campaign. Change from the widely misperceived “trend” of nine losing seasons (some narrow) in 10 years at the gig. Or, failing that, a few bucks and change remaining at the end of the meeting from the original imaginary $2,000 stake. No change in the format. One selection on semi-serious handicapping, one on pure hunch.

Handicap: King of the City (7th, $30W) has been off since February, but has a good recent work and speed to be well placed. Similar stuff to what Sky Cape had going for trainer Kristin Mulhall before pulling off Saturday's upset in the La Jolla Handicap. Plus a $2 EBX combining King of the City with Dr. Skimming and Scandalous.

Hunch: John Sadler is the current training force to be reckoned with here and rather than try to beat him we're going to join him, backing the two he'll saddle today, Chocolate Lava (2nd, $15W) and Syndicator (4th, $15W).

Yesterday's Handicap: Coronet of a Baron (8th, $30W) made a good effort and was moved up from third to second via disqualification, which did us no good. The $1 tri key with 'Baron in the win spot over Captain Steel, S.S. Stone and Azul Leon was reduced to $2 when Captain Steel was scratched and went down as a loss.

Yesterday's Hunch: John Edwards scandal-inspired Synnin and Grinnin (5th, $30W) was the easiest of winners, paying $6.40 and giving us a $66 profit for the transaction.

Yesterday's win: $34. Bankroll: $1,772.