Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #4 (AUGUSTA MOON) (3-1) - This daughter of 'Malibu Moon' ships from Monmouth where she finished 3rd going 8.5 furlongs while facing tougher Aug. 2. A $250,000 purchase, trainer Todd Pletcher drops her into a claimer, and that's a strong 38% winning angle by the barn since Jan. 1 of 2018. He removes her blinkers and John Velazquez is aboard for the first time. The top pick, but make sure you reverse your exactas in this rather puzzling field.
2nd pick: #2 (Art Thief) (4-1) - Lightly raced filly has made up ground in all three starts and runs today for the first time since June 16, and first off a George Weaver claim. Dangerous today.
3rd pick: #1 (Countenance) (7-2) - This filly moves back to the grass while doubling up in price. 4yo ran 2nd here at seven furlongs on the dirt for a $20K tag July 26. Claimed that day by Steve Asmussen, a 20% angle, she has previous positive turf experience, a ground saving post, and must be left in the mix.
4th pick: #3 (Going to Temple) (10-1) - She tired while wide here at this tag and trip July 31. The filly has worked since and may be ready for a competitive effort at a big price.
5th pick: #8 (Secret Alchemy) (20-1) - This longshot is working fast for her first race since Jan. 17. She had an excuse last out, and it's noted that she received some betting support in both attempts.