img HORSE

SARATOGA Race #11 (THE WOODWARD STAKES (G1))

September 2, 2017
img6:50 PM Eastern
Premium Pick

Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #2 (GUN RUNNER) (4-5) - With the decline in form of 'Arrogate' this hard hitter is the leader of the older horse handicap division. He enters off a pair of dominating wins in the Stephen Foster Handicap (G1) June 17 at Churchill Downs and the local Whitney Invitational (G1) here Aug. 5. Both were at this nine furlong distance and he defeated tougher fields in that pair. The likely winner at a short price.

2nd pick: #3 (Rally Cry) (3-1) - One of two entered by trainer Todd Pletcher and the pair race uncoupled. Speed/stalker ran a career best when he won the local $100K Alydar Stakes at this distance Aug. 6. The figure earned was very high and believe this son of'Uncle Mo' is the only danger.

3rd pick: #1 (Neolithic) (8-1) - The second of the Pletcher pair, he's moving way up in class while stretching back out in distance. Colt won a swiftly run seven furlong contest here over much weaker Aug. 5, but it was his first race since late March and he should move forward off of it. He's earned triple digit figures in the past and should grab a minor award.

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