Top pick: #1 (PEDROLINO) - Very expensive ($925,000) colt by "Distorted Humor" ran a strong second in his North American debut after being in France earlier in his career. That race was at this level going seven furlongs and he's come-back with another nice work. The horse to beat.
2nd pick: #5 (Bionic Man) - Runs second off a 5 1/2 month layofe and he finished a respectable fourth of 10 in his return run. Colt finished eight lengths behind the top pick that day and obviously needs to move forward to reverse that decision. Barn (Steve Asmussen) is solid second off the break (23%).
3rd pick: #2 (Normandruth) - Bargain-priced colt ($4000) split the top two choices in his latest and with his one run style he'll need a "clean" trip in this large field (11). Small slice may be his ceiling.
4th pick: #4 (Carnival Ride) - Deep closer has been freshened-up since early July by veteran trainer Bob Holthus. Gelding by "Gilded Time" has finished second or third in half of his eight lifetime starts and is working well for this. Late on the scene contender.