Top pick: #2 (THURGOOD) (7-2) - Lightly raced gelding by 'Giant's Causeway' has been on the sidelines since a poor start in late August at Saratoga. Strong finisher showed a lot of his ability in his previous pair and returns off the layoff as a NEW gelding. 4yo still has potential and can take this if ready.
2nd pick: #1 (Macagone) (5-1) - He's the main speed every time he runs on the grass and is another returning to action as a NEW gelding. He spent the winter working at Palm Meadows in Florida for his new trainer (Michelle Nihei). Very dangerous on the lead if ready off a 6-month layoff.
3rd pick: #9 (Blue Shark) (8-1) - Longshot moves up in class after a sharp maiden win going 8.5-furlongs at Aqueduct April 16. He's always shown ability and seems to have gotten better since being claimed for $25K by Dave Donk in early Dec. Win candidate.
4th pick: #8 (Sonnyandpally) (6-1) - Veteran is a 3-time winner on the turf facing claimers, but has always found this condition a bit beyond his talent level. He was in career best shape when the grass racing season ended in New York late in 2014 and has been competitive off of layoffs in the past.
5th pick: #10 (Runaway Posse) (3-1) - His lack of speed is a concern along with his outside post. However, he always makes a strong stretch charge and was beaten a 'neck' at Aqueduct in his seasonal debut April 24. Obvious contender at a short price.