Top pick: #1a (BARRIER REEF) - Was really sharp earlier this year winning three in a row before finishing third in the Excelsior Hdcp. at Aqueduct, where he was done in by a slow pace and some traffic problems. Likes to come from far back but the speed in this 12-furlong contest looks quick for the distance. Well-bred and still lightly raced, he's the top choice. Part on an entry with "Ea".
2nd pick: #1 (Ea) - Much improved since switching to the dirt four starts back, he hasn't finished worse than second from that point. Bred to handle this distance, he still has room for more improvement. Nice compliment to the top pick.
3rd pick: #9 (Rising Moon) - It's a big race and therefore the presence of a Richard Dutrow Jr. trained runner must be respected. Gelding has talent and he's won at this distance before, but his career has been hampered by bad feet, thus the many gaps in his running lines. Finished second here on May 8 after being away almost nine months and he looks set for his best.
4th pick: #7 (Alcomo) - Makes his third start in this country after a very long layoff. Import just missed last out on this surface in the slop, and should be set for his best in the third start back. Underrated trainer (Eduardo Caramori) is in his corner.