1) American Anthem 3-1
2) Cistron 9-1
3) Law Abidin Citizen 32-1
4) Majestic Eagle 32-1
5) Nero 5-1
6) Air Strike 10-1
7) The Hardest Way 3-1
8) All Out Blitz 9-1

- AMERICAN ANTHEM (1) is in a tough spot breaking from the inside; Mike Smith likely needs to send from the inside draw, potentially getting involved in a speed duel with CISTRON (2), who breaks directly to his outside

- THE HARDEST WAY (7) couldn't have been more impressive winning at Keeneland last out against weaker; the hike in class is no bargain, but visually he couldn't have looked any better - he's a deserved short price

- I've long thought NERO (5) would prove to be a graded stakes caliber racehorse, and I think he has a big chance this afternoon; he's always been a quirky horse (keep an eye on Van Dyke and his handling - Nero doesn't appreciate the whip and is prone to shutting it down), but the talent has been there since day one...at this price, I want to give him a look

I like Nero to win this year's Triple Bend on the turn-back in distance for Bob Baffert and Drayden Van Dyke; he's currently 7-1 with 12 MTP.