Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #5 (CERRO) (3-1) - Freshened up since June 11, he tired that day at Belmont racing in an optional $62K claimer 2x allowance. Claimed that afternoon by the high-percentage barn of Jorge Navarro he has him working fast at Monmouth and drops him down off the six week break. Very fast from the gate and he's the main speed. Navaro wins at a 28% rate first off the claim and at a 27% clip of of this type of freshening.
2nd pick: #1a (Heaven's Runway) (6-1) - Originally part on an entry with #1 'Fabulous Kid,' trainer Dave Jacobson has this one going solo. Stalker is racing third back off of a pair of layoffs, drops down in class, and switches from grass to dirt. A stakes winner in the past sprinting on dirt and a serious threat if 'Cerro' is sub par.
3rd pick: #6 (Sam Sparkle) (5-1) - Even-paced type drops a bit and is stretching back out to his favorite distance. He's in shape, has won here in the past, and 8yo should get a fast pace to rally into.
4th pick: #8 (Lucky Lotto) (4-1) - On the sidelines since April 2, old timer is working above average for his return. The level and distance are fine with him and he could factor if ready off the four month break.