Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #3 (UNCLE GIO) (9-2) - He's improved noticeably since switching to the barn of Michelle Nevin last fall. He's gone 6-2-2-1 since then and was beaten just over a length at Belmont June 7 after a very wide trip. He's working fast, draws well today, and blinkers are added for the first time.
2nd pick: #2 (I'm the Captain Now) (7-2) - Competitive in 11 straight on the grass, all at 10 furlongs or more, he rallied strongly to miss by a 'head' at this level July 7 at Belmont. Stretch runner draws a ground-saving post, has positive local experience, and is dangerous.
3rd pick: #1 (Entry of #1-Pillar Mountai & 1a-Gauguin) (5-2) - 'Pillar Mountain' is a lightly raced Irish import who is making only his third start. The better half of this entry is 'Gauguin,' who has been sharp in five of six since coming to No. America. He was a 'head' in front of 'I'm the Captain Now' July 7 at Belmont, and this German-bred has more natural speed than most entered. A win candidate.
4th pick: #6 (Holiday Bonus) (9-2) - Stalker was beaten just over two lengths July 7 at Belmont while finishing right behind both 'Gauguin' and 'I'm the Captain Now.' It was his second back following a 7.5-month layoff, and he must be left in the mix today.