Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #4 (HARD HITTER) (4-1) - He missed by a 'neck at this level and distance March 24 at Aqueduct, but tired here at the same level going 6.5 furlongs April 27. Trainer Rudy Rodriguez has worked him twice since, and I like that Irad Ortiz, Jr. stays aboard. Gelding gets a small edge.
2nd pick: #2 (Lightning Buzz) (5-1) - Competitive in four straight, he finished an even 3rd here April 27, and was two lengths in front of 'Hard Hitter' that afternoon. Stretch runner has a ground saving post and is a late threat.
3rd pick: #8 (Joopster) (9-2) - Lightly raced and well bred, he ships from Keeneland where he was beaten just over four lengths facing tougher April 12. Working fast since, he's a serious player at a square price.
4th pick: #7 (Appealing Henry) (3-1) - Stalker drops way down after tiring badly April 22 at Aqueduct facing much tougher. It was his first since Feb. 10, and 4yo had been competitive in four straight before the break. Tough call, but he's in the mix with his 'A' game.