In the… stakes
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Aspect Comparison
The phrase highlights or compares a specific characteristic when evaluating something or someone. 
He's low in the charisma stakes, but his intelligence is unmatched.
Pro Tip 2/3Imaginative Context
Often used to create a hypothetical competition in which qualities are assessed. 
In the dessert stakes, her chocolate cake takes first prize.
Pro Tip 3/3Subjectivity
Indicates the speaker's personal opinion or subjective judgment, not a factual measurement. 
In the fun stakes, the party tonight was rather low.