Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #1 (HARLAN'S HUNCH) (5-2) - Colt has been sharp in both starts, each coming at this level on the grass. He missed by a length here at this distance when debuting July 14, then tired late to finish fourth when following a very wide trip going 8.5 furlongs at Saratoga Aug 13. He's worked three times since and trainer Todd Pletcher will shorten him up in distance.
2nd pick: #8 (Forge) (7-2) - He sold for $375,000 a year ago at the same sale which saw 'Harlan's Hunch' go for $435K. Colt tired very late after setting a quick pace debuting in a Saratoga dirt sprint July 23. Bet down to 3-1 that afternoon, trainer has worked him five times since, switches him to the turf, and Castellano back on the re-ride.
3rd pick: #11 (Toshiro) (4-1) - Lasix is added to grey gelding who missed by a 'neck' when debuting in a grass sprint Aug 24 at the Spa. Stalker is an obvious threat if able to avoid a wide trip .
4th pick: #12 (California Swing) (6-1) - Away since May 27, son of 'Malibu Moon' raced evenly when debuting here that day going five furlongs on the grass. Working steadily for his return, trainer Chris Clement (18% second time out) wins at a solid 23% clip off long layoffs.
5th pick: #10 (Battle of Blenheim) (10-1) - One of four making their debuts, home bred son of 'War Front' has been in steady training since late June. A near bullet half-mile gate breeze Sept 5 at Saratoga suggest he has some talent.