Da Big Hoss takes John's Call at Saratoga

SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. (AP) Skychai Racing's Da Big Hoss made a sweeping move on the outside nearing the stretch and sprinted down the center of the track to win the $100,000 John's Call by two lengths Wednesday at Saratoga Race Course.

Trained by Mike Maker, Da Big Hoss ran 1 5/8 miles in 2:44.37 over a firm turf course in his stakes debut. It was the third win of the day for meet-leading rider Irad Ortiz, Jr., who has won Saratoga's feature three consecutive racing days.

A 4-year-old son of Lemon Drop Kid, Da Big Hoss paid $8.50, $3.70 and $2.90 as the 3-1 second choice in a field of eight older turf horses. Holiday Star closed late and returned $4.90 and $3.80 for second. Manchurian High paid $7.30 to show.

Global Strike, the 6-5 favorite, was fourth.