26th Apr 2021 | Valspar Championship
Valspar Championship: Ryan Palmer
Not exactly a winning machine but playing some of the best golf of his career. Enjoys a stiff test and if forecast wind materialises his chances will be enhanced. Made his last 4 cuts here.
It’s been more than a decade since Ryan Palmer won a tournament on his own (i’m putting aside his Zurich Classic win) which perhaps makes him a dicey betting proposition but he’s playing some great golf.
Palmer is ranked 28th in the world, he’s scarcely been higher in his career and the underlying numbers back it up. He is in the top-30 for strokes gained tee-to-green and is 18th for birdie average.
The 44-year-old is at his best on tough courses and Copperhead fits the bill, with Paul Casey winning on 8-under in 2019. A bit of wind will also help his chances and although the forecast isn’t exactly gale-force the wind is expected to blow around 14mph on Friday, so it is hardly benign conditions.
Wins for Casey, Senden and Streelman lend credence to the fact this course suits the more experienced golfer and Palmer looks a good fit despite his atrocious strike-rate.
*Betfair are paying 8 places 1/5 odds.
Odds correct at time of publishing: 19:40 26th Apr, 2021 but subject to change