Top pick: #8 (ISMAEL GRANDE) - He takes a big step up today, but he was a very impressive maiden winner here two weeks ago going 6.5 furlongs. Colt by "Hennessy" is in a very good barn, and this 3-year-old has a flexible style and is in shape. Can take this at a nice price.
2nd pick: #3 (Magnifi Cat) - Stretch-out sprinter by "Storm Cat" has a stalking style, is improving, and has enough speed to be involved here from start to finish. Dangerous runner from trainer Alan Goldberg.
3rd pick: #1 (South Fleet) - He hasn't raced since last Feb. at Aqueduct when he finished a strong second in a high-end starter-allowance. Working fast for his return, he has the rail, and his trainer (Tony Dutrow) wins at a 39% rate off of long absences.