Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #6 (FOX RED) (4-1) - Churchill shipper tired there when debuting at this level going 6.5 furlongs facing tougher June 23. Trainer Norm Casse drops him into a claimer, has Javier Castellano aboard, and this $100K purchase breezed a bullet half-mile July 12 before heading here.
2nd pick: #1 (Mantle) (2-1) - This colt by 'Pioneer of the Nile' sold for $400,000 and has only made one start. He tired after setting a pressured pace going 7 furlongs at Gulfstream June 21. Bet down to 2-1 favoritism that afternoon, trainer Todd Pletcher drops him in for a $40,000 claiming price. Three-year-old has the rail and is dangerous.
3rd pick: #4 (El Mas Puro) (8-1) - Lightly-raced colt has been freshened up since Feb. 25 when he finished second at Oaklawn Park at this level and distance on a sloppy track. He worked fast here July 13 for 'Hall of Famer' Wayne Lukas and is capable if ready.
4th pick: #3 (Metaphorical) (6-1) - He has fine early speed and enters off a pace chasing second place finish at this tag & trip at Belmont May 31. Three of his four works showing is above average and he must be left in the mix.