Top pick: #4 (STRAPPING GROOM) (5-1) - As is normal on big race days, the sprint is the most dificult, and this edition of the "Vosburgh" is no exception. This veteran enters in career best shape and last out won the G1 "Forego" at Saratoga going 7 furlongs. Speed/stalker likes this surface (5-3-1-1), and his flexibile running style is a plus. 6-year-old gets a slight edge.
2nd pick: #3 (Bahamian Squall) (4-1) - He's been freshened up since running second to today's rival "Justin Phillip" at Saratoga on Aug. 4 in the G1 "Alfred Vanderbilt." Working fast in Florida for this attempt, speedy son of "Gone West" should be involved from start-to-finish.
3rd pick: #2 (Justin Phillip) (3-1) - Veteran seems to have made almost all of the big sprints over the past two years and this strong finisher has done nicely on this surface in the past (7-3-2-0). The faster the pace, the better his prospects.
4th pick: #7 (Candyman E) (12-1) - Longshot has some major physical issues, but enters off a sharp second-place finish behind "Groom" at Saratoga on Aug. 12. One-run type has back class, is working fast, and could factor at a square price with his best.