Top pick: #5 (BEAR'S ROCKET) - Veteran finished second last out when his connections dropped him down to race for $16K and 5-year-old was claimed that afternoon by the Ness barn. New trainer wins at a 34% clip fresh off the claim and he brings this son of "Lion Heart" back at the purchase price three weeks later. Can upset the presumed favorite No. 4 "Dreaming Blue".
2nd pick: #4 (Dreaming Blue) - The probable favorite has come back from a 70-day layoff and much better horse and he finished second at this level and distance June 13 in what was the best overall race in his short career. Has a flexible style, is an obvious contenter, and he'd be no surprise.
3rd pick: #1 (Liam's Song) - Tough call as this lightly raced 4-year-old tries winners for the first time. Home-bred was an easy winner here in his debut June 7 and the "figure" earned fits well with this group. Well-bred, in a good barn, and he continues to work fast in the mornings. Has the rail and think he'll be competitive in this spot.