Top pick: #5 (FIGHTING ON) (3-1) - Consistent sort runs first off a Ron Ellis claim (22%) and a subsequent 2 1/2 month layoff. He brings him back at the purchase price, adds blinkers, moves him from turf to "poly," and cuts him back in distance.
2nd pick: #4 (U S Citizen) (2-1) - The probable favorite, he finished a close up third here at this level and distance July 19 in his second back from a half-year's absence. He's worked since, Bejarano stays aboard, and this once classier type is a win candidate.
3rd pick: #2 (Rum Point) (9-2) - Speedy colt takes a big drop in class after tiring badly last out facing tougher. Highly thought of last fall, trainer Doug O'Neill has him racing with blinkers on, and in a career soft spot.