Top pick: #4 (MUCH STRONGER) (7-2) - Speedy colt drops down into a straight claimer after tiring in his last pair facing tougher. Son of "Brother Derek" raced on muddy surfaces in both of those and each was at a "flat" mile. Trainer Dave Jacobson cuts him back in distance and I like his chances.
2nd pick: #6 (Ten Items Or Less) (5-1) - Very lightly-raced gelding was claimed by Linda Rice for $60K and has been on the sidelines since. Barn drops him well below the purchase price, but they could break even if he wins this and gets claimed again.
3rd pick: #7 (Leilani's Ticket) (4-1) - New York-bred chased a quick pace and weakened last out at Belmont in his first off a Dom Galluscio claim. Hard-hitting type (13-2-5-2)on dirt was with the trainer last fall and I always like the re-claim angle.
4th pick: #3 (Datts Happy) (6-1) - Colt by "Indian Charlie" finished a pace-setting second to "Leilani" at Belmont on May 25th and has been on the shelf for the past two months. Seems best when stalking and can factor if that tactic is used in this spot.