Top pick: #2 (SUNNY MILLS) (5-2) - He's improved noticeably since being claimed by Ramon Preciado for $15K March 21. 4yo has finished 2nd in two straight here at this level, the latest May 25 earned him a career best 'figure.' Working fast for this attempt, and the leading trainer has him set to win.
2nd pick: #1 (Empowering Force) (6-1) - Lightly raced 3yo has the rail and early speed. He ships from Penn National where he pressed and tired to finish 3rd there facing weaker June 4. It was his first off a pair of two month breaks and first since coming from Santa Anita. Fits with his best.
3rd pick: #3 (J's Buck Shot Bang) (12-1) - Monmouth shipper stretches back out in distance after finishing 4th there at this level going 6-furlongs June 14. He had checked in a close up 4th in his previous start going a mile and may grab a share at long odds.
4th pick: #5 (This Cat Has Bling) (8-1) - 4yo exits the same May 25 race as 'Sunny Mills.' He raced wide the entire distance and was 4-lengths behind that common rival at the finish. Lightly raced, he can factor today with a more comfortable trip.