Top pick: #7 (ROMAN APPROVAL) (2-1) - Colt had quite a career in Puerto Rico at 9-3-6-1 before coming to New York this past spring. Speedy son of "Roman Ruler" has been competitive in his first pair at Belmont when facing tougher since coming north and trainer Mike Hushion has him taking a big drop in class for this attempt. Three-year-old draws a nice outside post and is 2-1-1-0 at this distance. The horse to beat.
2nd pick: #4 (Bridgeville) (3-1) - Lightly-raced and well bred, he's won three of six when racing on the dirt. Ships up from Philly Park where he easily defeated weaker on Aug. 10. That produced a career best figure and he's a win candidate today despite moving up in class.
3rd pick: #3 (Bigger Picture) (4-1) - Triple Crown nominee hasn't seen action since Feb. 6 when he finished a rallying second, going two-turns at the Fair Grounds. Drops to a new low for this and trainer Mike Maker (who's having a strong meet) wins at a 19% rate off of long layoffs. A threat if ready.
4th pick: #5 (Hidden Hand) (12-1) - Longshot was bet here on July 31st in an off the turf contest at this level and distance. He showed good early speed on the muddy surface and tired in the final furlong. The race was his first in 4 1/2 months and he should be much fitter for this assignment.