The Bjorn Baker-trained Goodfella has not commanded the same respect as the top bracket of three-year-old colts this season but perhaps he should.
Firstly, he's by Snitzel. What can be said about the champion sire that hasn't already been uttered?
Secondly, he was one of the most precocious of his generation, featuring in the first set of juvenile barrier trials in September of last year before shedding his maiden in a pre-Christmas metropolitan race.
Thirdly, he is placed at Group III level and finished a gallant fourth behind Houtzen in the Magic Millions 2YO Classic (1200) at the Gold Coast.
And finally, he is a last start winner tackling Saturday's Listed Brian Crowley Stakes (1200m) at Randwick – a race that has recently produced stallions such as Northern Meteor, Hinchinbrook and Love Conquers All.
Although tasked with coming back 200m in distance, Goodfella is an equal second favourite at $4.80 with Sportsbet.
While Baker would have preferred to stay at 1400m, the Warwick Farm trainer is hoping some rainfall will offset that.
"There were no other races for him – simple as that – but if the rain comes he'll be right in it," Baker said.
"He's drawn well and should be in touch of the leaders and we'll see what he's got."
Should Goodfella run up to expectations, Baker will give his colt the opportunity to seal a stallion career in next month's Group I Coolmore Stud Stakes (1200m) at Flemington.
And being adept at 1400m is a valuable attribute for a horse tackling Flemington's straight six course for the first time.
"We are looking at the Coolmore," Baker said.
"His form is pretty good when you look at it.
"He was sixth-up in the Magic Millions, he got back that day and didn't have much luck and just got beaten for third.
"I really believe he's a good horse. First-up over 1100m was just too short for him first-up this prep especially with the way the track was playing."
Baker will also be represented by Impavido and the resuming Collateral at Randwick this Saturday.
"Impavido is in good order third-up but he's drawn 13 of 13 which may make things hard for him," Baker said.
"Collateral is underrated I reckon. 1400m is obviously well short of his best but I think he's a pretty good horse so I certainly wouldn't rule out him sprinting well fresh."
Meanwhile, Baker's star performer of the spring thus far, Champagne Cuddles, is set to return from a freshen-up next week with a view to contesting the $2 million Magic Millions 3YO Guineas (1400m) in January.
