Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #8 (GO POKE THE BEAR) (5-1) - A NEW gelding, he's dropping in class following an even effort June 15 at Belmont facing starter-allowance ($40K level) foes. It was his first following a re-claim by Todd Pletcher and he paid up an additional $20K to get him back for the high profile Repole Stable operation. He had this 3yo work four times here in July and it's noted that Irad Ortiz Jr, who won on him April 17 is signed on.
2nd pick: #4 (Thomond Park) (9-2) - He finished a pace-pressing third facing $50K 2l claimers going 8.5 furlongs at Belmont June 30. 3yo earned a career best figure and I like that Jose Ortiz stays with him.
3rd pick: #10 (Dakota's Dude) (4-1) - Florida bred rallied to win by 1.5 lengths for today's $40K price tag June 15 at Belmont. It was his first start outside of his home state and first for trainer Jorge Abreu. He should like today's longer trip and must be left in the mix.
4th pick: #9 (Tricky Magician) (6-1) - Canadian bred ships from Woodbine where he tired late June 29 facing allowance foes in his first start since Dec. 2. 3yo was stakes placed last year and trainer Mark Casse is dropping him into a claimer for the first time.