Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #7 (MIDNIGHT SURPRISE) (7-2) - She was a good looking debut winner here going 6 furlongs July 25. Bet down to 8-5 favoritism, she's from the Pletcher barn and he has her taking the next logical step. I give her a slight edge.
2nd pick: #6 (Flashpackinbarbie) (4-1) - A lightly raced daughter of 'Munnings', she finished a pace-pressing 2nd here at this level July 31. Competitive in three of four, speed/stalker has room for upside and is a win candidate.
3rd pick: #5 (Firenze Freedom) (8-1) - On the sidelines since Jan. 18, stakes placed 3yo runs off a private trainer change to Kelly Breen, a strong 26% angle. One run type has been working steadily at Monmouth and is a threat if ready off the 7.5 month layoff.
4th pick: #3 (Eloquent Speaker) (3-1) - She's cutting back in distance after tiring late to finish 3rd here at this level going 9 furlongs July 2. Sharp in both previous sprints, daughter of 'Flatter' must be left in the mix.
5th pick: #4 (Bustin Scones) (8-1) - Even paced 4yo has finished 2nd in three of her last four, all at this level in sprints. One run type is capable of factoring, but needs to do better in the final stages.