Top pick: #8 (CAGE FIGHTER) (4-1) - Churchill shipper rallied to finish fourth there despite serious traffic issues when debuting at this level and distance just 11 days ago. The nation's leading trainer (Steve Asmussen) wins at a 23% rate second time out and this colt can take this "wide open" contest at a square price.
2nd pick: #9 (Batten the Hatches) (3-1) - His grass record stands at 10-0-5-4, and he's 6-0-2-4 at this mile trip. Trainer Vickie Foley scratched him last week out of a shorter race to await this longer event and colt is an obvious win candidate.
3rd pick: #1 (Drink Or Hold) (9-2) - Lightly-raced son of "Include" has finished second and third here since switching to the infield and this stalker draws the rail. In shape, he worked at Keeneland a week ago and is a stretch threat.
4th pick: #5 (Barry Shortpants) (12-1) - Grey gelding by "Flashy Bull" has finished second in two of three on the dirt, the latest coming in late Jan. at the Fair Grounds. Bred to like the grass, and he can factor at long odds if ready.
5th pick: #6 (Red Roncho) (10-1) - Gelding has finished second here in two straight at this level, the latest coming at this mile trip on June 18th. He necked "Drink Or Hold" out of the place spot that day and has worked sharply since.