Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #4 (MIDNIGHT WHISKEY) (3-1) - The colt missed by a 'neck' in a multiple-horse win photo June 5 at Belmont racing at this level and distance on a muddy surface. Only his second start, it was a big improvement off his March 15 debut when he tired after setting a pressured pace. He breezed a half-mile here July 13, is making back-to-back starts for the first time, and Joel Rosario stays aboard. 3yo gets a slight edge.
2nd pick: #7 (Papa Luke) (4-1) - One of a trio of 4yos entered, he finished a pace-setting 2nd at this level June 27 at Belmont. It was his first since tiring when debuting at Gulfstream facing 'open' company May 3, and he's a strong win candidate in this spot.
3rd pick: #9 (Faragut) (6-1) - No speed type has been competitive in three straight at this level. One run type can factor, but he will need a fast and/or contested pace to rally into for any chance at winning this.
4th pick: #10 (Top of the Mint) (5-1) - Another of the 4yos entered, he missed by a length and was right behind 'Midnight Whiskey' and 'Faragut' at Belmont June 5. Much like the latter, he lacks early speed and will be far back in the early stages from his outside post. Even with the right pace set up, a minor award may be his ceiling.