Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #1 (SPIETH) (9-5) - One of two entered by trainer Kiaran McLaughlin and the pair race uncoupled. Grey colt has early speed and is racing second back off an eight month layoff. He finished second at this level and distance going a mile in his return July 3 and has been working fast since.
2nd pick: #2 (Alpha Team) (6-1) - One of two 4-year-olds entered, he's been on the sidelines since Jan. 6. Competitive in all three starts at this level on the turf, trainer Bill Mott has him on the dirt for the first time. Working above average here at the Spa, he's a threat if able to handle the main track.
3rd pick: #4 (Powerful Ally) (7-2) - Lightly-raced and well bred, $200K son of 'Stay Thirsty' finished a close up third here at this level and distance July 23. A career best, it was his first back from two months of freshening. Can factor right back.
4th pick: #7 (D'ambrosio) (3-1) - The second of the McLaughin trained pair, he's making only his third start in this spot. He showed good early speed last out at Belmont before tiring to finish third, 1.5 lengths in back of 'Spieth.' Must be left in the mix.