Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #6 (NO LUNKS) (5-1) - This filly hasn't raced since a troubled start at Saratoga Aug. 24. In the Pletcher barn at that time, she was bumped heavily at the break, and tired while wide once in stride. She has a new trainer (Maryland based Jim Lawrence), and he has her working steadily for her return at Fair Hill. He drops her into a claimer and she has a solid shot at a square price.
2nd pick: #7 (Desert Affair) (5-2) - Home bred has finished 2nd in two straight at this level. One came sprinting on the inner-surface March 18, and the latest came here going a one-turn mile April 6. An obvious win threat.
3rd pick: #8 (Bluegrass Hip Hop) (3-1) - One of two entered by trainer Rudy Rodriguez, and the pair race uncoupled. This debuting filly by 'Bluegrass Cat' has been in steady training locally since mid-January, and it's noted that Irad Ortiz, Jr. is aboard.
4th pick: #2 (New York Bourbon) (5-1) - Lasix and blinkers are added to this grey filly who has been competitive in all three starts. She's racing second off a Bruce Levine claim and has more early speed than most. Must be left in the mix.