Top pick: #1 (KOWBOY BOOTS) (7-2) - Speedy colt ships in from Churchill Downs where he ran second for a $40K tag going a "flat" mile on June 28th He seat a quick and pressured pace that day and held gamely to secure the place spot. He earned a career best figure that day, draws the rail, and J.J. Castellano is aboard. The horse to beat.
2nd pick: #4 (King of Broadway) (4-1) - He's finished second twice in three attempts at this demanding 9-furlong trip and is dropping into a straight claimer for the first time. Son of "Sky Mesa" has a stalking style and is a win candidate.
3rd pick: #3 (Successful Brothers) (9-2) - "Long winded" type will be dropping in class, shortening up in distance, and going turf to dirt. He's gone 6-0-4-1 on the dirt and has more early speed than most. Gelding enters off a solid fourth place finish when facing tougher on the Belmont grass and must be left in the mix.
4th pick: #8 (Goodnewsisnonews) (3-1) - Son of "Giant's Causeway" cost $250K as a yearling in 2012, but has proven to be a disappointment. In the Pletcher barn, he moves him from turf to dirt and drops him into a claimer for the first time. Colt is a threat if he avoids a wide trip into the first turn, which comes very quickly here at this distance.