Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #3 (ZORICH) (2-1) - He's dropping down in class after a long series of competitive efforts facing tougher. A 4yo by 'Hard Spun,' he finished 3rd here facing $50K starter-allowance types July 10, He has a stalking style, has blinkers off, and he draws inside of the main contenders. The presence of leading rider Umberto Rispoli seals the deal.
2nd pick: #4 (Alvaaro) (9-2) - He raced wide before weakening to finish 4th of seven, beaten by just over nine lengths here at this distance, facing $50K starter-allowance foes Aug. 15. Racing into shape following a long layoff, he's spotted well by Doug O'Neill and is a win candidate.
3rd pick: #6 (Self Taught) (5-1) - This 3yo gelding is stretching out after missing by a length sprinting here for a $20K tag Aug. 9. It was his first on the West Coast after Bob Hess, Jr. claimed him for $20K June 18 at Churchill Downs. In the mix.
4th pick: #5 (Debt Monger) (6-1) - This state-bred broke his maiden at this distance facing 'open' $25K claimers on June 5 at Santa Anita, his first race since Feb 22. In his follow up here July 26, he missed by a 1/2 length to today's rival, 'Vodka Twist,' for a $16K tag. Lightly raced and improving, he's capable of factoring despite moving up in price.