Top pick: #7 (RAYA ROYA) - He may have been best last out at Del Mar when he rallied to finish second at this level on Aug. 18. Colt had some serious traffic issues in mid-stretch and did well under the circumstances. Trainer Mike Puype has worked him three times here since then and the latest pair have been on the quick side. The horse to beat.
2nd pick: #10 (Exultant) - Lightly-raced colt has been a bit "head strong" in his last two races and runs today for the first time since August 5th. Trainer John Sadler adds blinkers (a 25% move), moves him back to the turf and will stretch him out around two turns.
3rd pick: #3 (Sumerian) - He ran well when debuting at this level and trip at Del Mar Aug. 31. He took some action at the windows and trainer Julio Canani has given him five weeks to recover. Obvious contender.
4th pick: #6 (Great Rising Star) - This is start No. 21 so there's not much room for upside at this point. However, he's been competitive in four straight on the grass and 4-year-old has more tactical speed than most.