Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #1 (TACTICAL PURSUIT) (5-1) - A lightly raced 4yo, he's switching from turf to dirt and taking a big drop in class. He tired here facing tougher going 8.5 furlongs on the grass July 19 in his first following a Joe Sharp claim for $20K at Churchill Downs June 23. He's won two of three on the dirt since coming off a 6 month layoff April 12, has the rail, early speed, and Luis Saez aboard.
2nd pick: #2 (Halloween Horror) (3-1) - This old timer has been freshened up since June 1 when he rallied to finish third going 8.5 furlongs at Belmont for a $16K tag. Claimed that afternoon by Rudy Rodriguez, he drops him slightly and he had this veteran work four times here in July. One-run type draws well and Rodriguez has won with 28 of 102 (28%) off the claim in 2018-19.
3rd pick: #7 (Beyond the Green) (10-1) - Another veteran gelding, he's won both starts this year at Finger Lakes after returning from a 10.5 month layoff June 13. Once classier type has a speed/stalking style and think he'll be competitive today at a big price.
4th pick: #9 (Planet Trailblazer) (4-1) - Brazilian bred has an outstanding record on the dirt 17-7-4 4 and has won here in the past. 6yo gelding has gone 5-3-1-1 this year and runs first off a Mike Miceli claim.The level and distance are fine and he's the only horse entered with a previous win at this 9-furlong trip.