Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #7 (MORNING GOLD) (3-1) - A $205K purchase, this filly raced close up and held down the place spot when debuting here at this level and distance July 14. That experience is a big plus, and trainer Ken McPeek has leading rider Jose Ortiz taking over the riding assignment.
2nd pick: #8 (Apurate) (8-1) - She tired after rushing up following a slow start when debuting here in a dirt sprint. Trainer Todd Pletcher (27% second time out) moves her to the grass while stretching her out in distance (24%). Home bred should improve with the changes, and you get the legendary team of Pletcher/John Velazquez at a big price.
3rd pick: #1 (Slip Sliding Away) (8-1) - A home bred from Team Block, they are always one of the top stables in the Midwest, but rarely make an appearance at Saratoga. This filly is by 'American Pharoah' and is in the barn of turf specialist Jimmy Toner. In steady training since early July, I think she's a player in this spot.
4th pick: #2 (Micheline) (5-1) - A Godolphin home bred by 'Bernardini,' she debuts off of some steady and quick works at the Fair Hill Center in Western Maryland. Trainer Mike Stidham wins at a 15% rate first out, and this filly must be left in the mix.