Premier trainer Robert Heathcote believes Saturday's B J McLachlan Stakes is a mini Magic Millions which could make or break some supposed stars.

Heathcote has the unbeaten Pinch River in the McLachlan (1200m) at Doomben but he is opposed to the three horses at the top of the Magic Millions Classic markets in Echo Gal, Oakleigh Girl and Unencumbered.

"My bloke is the ultimate little professional but there are three horses in the race who are touted as future superstars," Heathcote said.

"Then you have another six who look to be highly promising. It may not be the biggest field of the season but it is all quality."

Heathcote says the McLachlan, which was previously named the Tommy Smith Slipper, has a long history of ruining reputations.

"I think it is because it is the first real test for them at 1200 metres," he said.

"The early-season races are usually 1000 metres and 1110 metres which means it is not always the best horse that wins.

"By that I mean it is usually the horse which does the least wrong that wins. Often when they get to 1200 metres racing styles change and you will find other horses go on to be the stars."

Heathcote emphasised he was not under-estimating the opposition and he was particularly impressed with Bjorn Baker's Unencumbered.

"He looks the real deal but my little bloke has pleased me since he came back from a break," Heathcote said.

"I know the times weren't fast in his two wins but you can only beat the opposition you are meeting. He did win his last start by five lengths," Heathcote said.

Pinch River won a jump-out by five lengths at his most serious hit-out since a let-up.

Heathcote makes no secret of the fact Pinch River reminds him of his Group One champion Buffering at the same age.

"I am not saying he will be anywhere near as good as Buffering. But he is a professional racehorse just like Buffering at the same age," Heathcote said.

Apprentice Priscilla Schmidt rode Pinch River at his last start win on November 16 but senior rider Damian Browne takes over on Saturday.