Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #7 (DE BIRD IS DA WORD) (2-1) - He's finished second here in two straight at this level and did so at this distance Sept. 2. His stalking style fits well with this group and he gets a slight edge.
2nd pick: #6 (Gran Red) (5-2) - One of two entered by Steve Asmussen and the pair race uncoupled. This veteran makes his local debut and does so fresh off a claim by the trainer, a 21% winning angle. He raced poorly at Ellis Park last out, but had been competitive in four of five prior to that. 4yo is an obvious contender.
3rd pick: #3 (Cliff's Place) (10-1) - The second from the Asmussen barn, he broke his maiden here going a mile for a $7500 claiming price Sept. 21. Heavily bet that afternoon (3-5), 3yo has good early speed and is a threat at a square price.
4th pick: #1 (Assay) (20-1) - Longshot stretches out after rallying to finish fourth, sprinting here at this level Sept. 11. He's been competitive at this trip in the past, draws the rail, and 4yo is capable of factoring at a very big price.