Top pick: #5 (SAN CRISTO) (5-2) - The probable favorite, veteran has been competitive here in four of his last five starts. Beaten by a 'neck' at this distance for a $16K tag June 21, leading trainer Ramon Preciado brings him back quickly, and moves him up just a bit in value. Stalker is the horse to beat.
2nd pick: #4 (Bug Juice) (7-2) - Old timer has banked over $600K in his 41-start career. He's won 13-times overall and is 10-for-31 racing on conventional dirt. New York shipper takes a big drop in his local debut and is three for seven out of town at this distance.
3rd pick: #1 (Dr Wesley) (4-1) - Speedy 6yo goes it alone after the late scratch of entry-mate #1a-Lawyer Dave. Gelding is racing third back off a 10 1/2 month layoff and showed an improved run last out. Believe a small slice is his ceiling.
4th pick: #3 (Ration) (6-1) - Stretch runner finished 3rd last out, but was 3 1/2 lengths behind 'San Cristo.' Capable with his best, but he needs to step it up for anything more than a minor award.