Top pick: #7 (BANNED) - The field's most accomplished runner ships here from the midwest where he finished a close-up third in the G1 Secretariat S. at Arlington on August 13. In his previous trio he won the G2 American Turf S.(G2) and the G3 Jefferson Cup, both at Churchill, and was beaten a head in the Virginia Derby(G2) at Colonial downs on July 16. Son of "Kitten's Joy" has a "get acquainted" work here a week ago and is the horse to beat. Colt is one of a pair entered by trainer Tom Proctor and the two will run as separate interests.
2nd pick: #8 (Lil Bit O'Fun) - The second of the Proctor pair just missed here in the G2 La Jolla H. on August 13 in his first start west of the Mississippi. Working fast for this and stretch runner completes a strong hand from the barn.
3rd pick: #1 (Midnight Interlude) - He had a very rough and tough trip in the La Jolla as the favorite in his first race in two months. He's worked twice since, draws the rail, and doubt Bejarano will get caught in traffic twice in a row. Major factor.
4th pick: #9 (Burns) - He's a steady performer and comes off a "game" win here in the G2 La Jolla H. on this surface three weeks ago. Drawss a tough post but can factor if he can work out a trip.