Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #5 (FIRST CHARMER) (7-2) - Speed/stalker finished 2nd of 12, beaten a length Oct 25 at Belmont racing at this level going a mile. Daughter of 'Smart Strike' earned a career best 'figure' and is clearly improving. Filly still has room for upside and she gets a slight edge.
2nd pick: #4 (Congress Park) (4-1) - Another that has early speed and she's been competitive in all seven starts. Each of those came on the grass and last out she checked in a pace-setting third when facing $75K 'open' maiden claimers. Back in with fellow New York breds, she's a strong win candidate.
3rd pick: #6 (Sweet Advance) (10-1) - Filly by 'War Front' cost $300,000 and has been a major disappointment for her connections. She ran both wide and evenly last out at Belmont and finished in back of several of today's rivals. However, she had a tough outside post (112th of 12) and the effort was encouraging. Stretch runner has a shot, and you'll get trainer Todd Pletcher at a big price for a change.
4th pick: #7 (Queen of the Cup) (7-2) - Very lightly-raced filly by 'Street Boss' moves up in class after finishing fourth of 12, beaten just under three lengths racing for a $40K tag Oct 21 at Belmont. Nice effort came in her first back from an 8 1/2 month layoff and she should move forward off of it. Barn has Irad Ortiz Jr. aboard, so they must like her chances.
5th pick: #2 (Ranger's Express) (5-1) - Long time maiden rallied strongly to check in third, only a 'nose' behind 'First Charmer' Oct 25 at Belmont. She has a ground saving post and is a threat if able to avoid any traffic in this large field.