Top pick: #2 (STUD MUFFIN) - Has improved dramatically since a claim last March by trainer Dave Duggan. He's a double stakes winner(in state-bred company) since, and has placed in several others after being a rather "ordinary" runner before the "buy". Loves this distance (6-3-1-1) and he's only one of two entered with a win on this surface. Takes this with a late move.
2nd pick: #4 (Brilliant Son) - Lightly-raced and fragile, when rested and spotted well by his connections (Kiaran McLaughlin), he's capable of a very big effort. Had a nice prep on the Keeneland turf last out and has some sharp works since. Big speed to utilize and he looks on edge. Win candidate.
3rd pick: #1 (Phil the Power) - Shipper's had a fine season (6-2-2-0) and comes into this in shape, and he's proven that he can "run all day." Draws a great post and attracts Coa for this stakes effort. Has to avoid falling too far back early.