Top pick: #4 (OUR LUKESTER) (9-2) - Lightly raced colt ships in from Monmouth where he finished 2nd at this level and distance July 3. It was his first since debuting at Belmont last Oct. and he gets a slight edge.
2nd pick: #6 (Buddy's Tiz) (5-1) - New York shipper is dropping back down in class and is making back-to-back starts for the first time since last winter. 5yo by 'Tiznow' cost $400K and has been a major disappointment. However, he's a win candidate against this group.
3rd pick: #3 (Alwaaly) (12-1) - This under-achiever cost $410,000 and runs today in a claimer for the first time. Colt has early speed and makes his first start for trainer Mike Pino (a 20% winning angle). Can factor at a big price.
4th pick: #8 (I'm Watching You) (5-2) - Lightly raced, he missed by a length racing here at this tag May 24. It was his first on the turf, and he returns with Lasix added. In the mix, but at a short price.
5th pick: #11 (Maximus Merdius) (7-2) - His post hurts his chances, but he fits with his best, has some speed, and is a threat if able to avoid a wide trip.