Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #7 (NOBLE AND TRUE) (2-1) - The probable favorite, he ships up from Monmouth where he finished an even third to an uncoupled stablemate. $200K gelding by 'Giant's Causeway' has been competitive in all four starts facing tougher. Trainer Todd Pletcher is dropping him into a claimer and has John Velazquez aboard, both for the first time.
2nd pick: #2 (Squeeze the Trigger) (6-1) - Price play chased and held to finish a distant second going a mile facing fellow New York breds for a $40K claiming price July 1 at Belmont. It was his second back from a two-month break and a career best. He has early speed, a sharp recent local drill, and breaks just of the rail.
3rd pick: #1 (Vilma) (7-2) - One of two entered by trainer Nick Zito and the pair race uncoupled. Speed/stalker ran a career best figure last out at Belmont (June 24) going a mile at this level. Has the rail and gelding is a major player.
4th pick: #6 (Paschal) (12-1) - Lightly-raced son of 'Curlin' is dropping to a new low in his first since May 15. Colt cost $230,000 and hasn't shown much in three starts facing tougher. He has a new trainer (Tom Morley) think this 3-year-old may be competitive against this group.