Top pick: #5 (NEVADA KID) (7-2) - Like many in here this colt is in career best shape and is moving up in class. He was an easy winner here at this distance on June 13th and the final time was impressive (1:35.60). Well-bred, in the Zito barn, and I like this colt's chances.
2nd pick: #7 (Valid) (4-1) - Lightly raced, beautifully-bred ("Medaglia d'Oro"), and expensice ($500K), he last ran on Feb. 2 when he had a very troubled trip at Aqu. in the "Withers" stakes (G3). Trainer Kiaran Mclaughlin has him working fast for his return and colt draws a nice outside post at this "flat" mile trip. Win candidate.
3rd pick: #3 (Bad Hombre) (3-1) - Much improved in his last pair, son of "Sky Mesa" broke his maiden here going 7 furlongs May 11th, then rallied to finish second when facing weaker on June 8th in his first against winners. Factors today.
4th pick: #2 (So Scott) (5-2) - Veteran has been a busy horse this year (9-1-4-2) and state-bred has a fine local record (6-1-2-2). No-speed type is a late threat if the pace is fast/and or contested.