Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #2 (LINKAPPLEYARD) (6-1) - Gelding has been freshened up since finishing second Aug 26 at Saratoga going 5.5-furlongs for a $50K tag. Bred/owned/and trained by Michelle Nevin, he's worked three times in the past 19 days. Barn moves him up in class and stretches him out to 7-furlongs. Has a shot at a square price.
2nd pick: #8 (Charming Joy) (7-2) - One of four making their debuts, colt has some sharp works showing and draws a nice outside post for this distance. Trainer Dom Schettino is capable first out (17%) and leading rider Irad Ortiz Jr. is signed on.
3rd pick: #6 (Blugrascat's Smile) (4-1) - He raced evenly after breaking from the rail when debuting here Sept 26 racing at this level. A useful first effort, he moves off the inside and has both Lasix and blinkers added by trainer Charlie Baker.
4th pick: #4 (Afleet Alfredo) (6-1) - Another of the first-time starters, he's from an excellent debut barn (Rick Violette Jr. 29%). Colt by 'Afleet Alex' has worked a half-dozen times since Sept 6, so that should have him fit for his initial public appearance.