Will Gomez ruin Preakness for "King of the Roxy"

[docicu3]

In trying to script the race for pace and closing presence it would seem reasonable that if the pace is more hotly contested than the derby that a closer other than Street Sense or Curlin may have more of a chance of winning the Preakness than previously discussed here.

If that scenario unfolds sheet theory and brisnet ultimate PP's would give "King of the Roxy" a decent shot at stealing this race late because of the rest he's had coming in to the race and documented late speed in previous races.

Watching some of Gomez's poor decisions over the last week leave me with a feeling that for whatever reason he is not as sharp as his best days from last year. Stepenwolfer and Eff Jaa Gee from the last 3 days at Belmont provide visual evidence of a confused rider cornering his horse rather than maneuvering deftly through traffic. I realize he's at the top of the standings in the money race which I see as more a function of the quality of the mounts he's offered.

"King" is probably my key for the race and I would love to believe in Gomez but I am starting to fear his recent trend albeit small and short but nevertheless bad data too obvious to ignore.

Curlin is a toss for me on short rest again, and Hard Spun has regressed slightly off each top so far in his career.

Will Gomez be the death of "King" or will he give him the ride that gives him a chance to win or at worst be ITM.

Thoughts on this .........????