Top pick: #1 (BERT STONE) (4-1) - Lightly-raced 3-year-old is running off a 70-day break for trainer John Parisella. Gelding has a stalking style, draws the rail, and is working steadily for his return. Can take today's opener at a square price with his best.
2nd pick: #2 (Whats Up Big Guy) (9-5) - Grey gelding tackles winners after an easy maiden win here on a sloppy surface going a mile June 21. He's hinted at ability in the past and is conservatively spotted by trainer Dave Cannizzo. Four-year-old by 'Macho Uno' is cutting back in distance but that shouldn't be an issue. Strong win candidate.
3rd pick: #5 (Four Directions) (7-2) - He's taking a big drop in class and racing off his third consecutive layoff. Training nicely for Linda Rice, this Broman home bred fits with his best and is racing in a claimer for the first time. In the three-horse win mix.
4th pick: #7 (Sounds of Saratoga) (8-1) - He's another racing off a layoff (Feb 1) and dropping to a new low in class. Stalker had a bullet half-mile work June 25 that suggests he'll return running. Believe a minor award is his ceiling.