By Christie DeBernardis
Mucho Gusto (Mucho Macho Man) looks to make good on his 'TDN Rising Star'–worthy debut as the morning-line favorite in Saturday's GIII Bob Hope S. at Del Mar. The $625,000 EASMAY buy was very impressive when graduating by four lengths in his six-panel unveiling at Los Alamitos Sept. 20 and should only improve as the races get longer. Baffert was also set to saddle Metropol (Shackleford), who donned cap and gown by 3/4 of a length on debut at Santa Anita Oct. 8, but the Peachtree Stable colorbearer spiked a fever earlier this week and will be scratched.
Fellow Hall of Famer Richard Mandella will be represented by Extra Hope (Shanghai Bobby) in this spot. The bay romped by 8 3/4 lengths last time in a 1 1/16-mile test at Santa Anita Oct. 21 to earn his diploma at fourth asking. Just two races later Sparky Ville (Candy Ride {Arg}) and Savagery (Bellamy Road) finished one-two, respectively, in the restricted Sunny Slope S. and they both return in this spot.
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