Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #4 (DOUBLE PRIORITY) (8-1) - This longshot chased the pace before weakening to finish 3rd when sprinting five furlongs facing tougher on the Louisiana Downs turf June 30. The good effort came in his first start since Feb. 9, and I like that trainer Lee Thomas brings him back quickly for this attempt.
2nd pick: #2 (Pray for Jake) (5-2) - He makes his local debut following a 3rd place finish at Will Rogers Downs in Oklahoma April 28. The well-bred 3yo has early speed and should be in this from gate-to-wire. A win candidate.
3rd pick: #6 (Wicked Statement) (5-1) - Freshened up since rather poor efforts facing tougher at the Fair Grounds, trainer Sam David, Jr., 22% off of long layoffs, drops him to a new low for his first since March 14. 4yo can factor if ready.
4th pick: #3 (Mister) (20-1) - Long time maiden has early speed but has tired badly in his last three starts. The 4yo runs off a bit more than a six-month layoff, but he likes it here (7-0-3-2) and may hold down a share at a big price.