Endurance Test on Tap in $350,000 American St. Leger

The Pizza Man (3/1) is expected to run in the Grade 1 Arlington Million, the featured race on the card, leaving the looming question of which runner will assume post time favoritism. Hyper, listed at 7/2 on the morning line, will take plenty of betting action, but gamblers will note his five-race losing streak against competition similar to what he will face in the St Leger. The Chad Brown trainee could appreciate the extra distance, but will likely need to be put into the race sooner by jockey Irad Ortiz – who will be the eight year-old runner’s sixth different jockey in as many starts.

Crucero goes for repeat stakes win 

Crucero (8/1) won the Grade 3 San Juan Capistrano June 28 in his last start while just holding on by a neck in the 1 3/4-mile trek at Santa Anita. Kent Desormeaux was aboard for the win and returns to ride the five year-old horse that is trained by his brother, Keith.

Live longshot has legit chance

Az Ridge is listed at 20/1 on the morning line, but is likely to receive at least some backing after showing excellent form in four minor stakes races at Canterbury Park and Turf Paradise since April 4. In those four starts, the six year-old gelding has shown excellent tactical speed while winning three and falling just a nose short in the other attempt. Az Ridge’s win in the Hasta La Vista Stakes came at a distance of 1 7/8 –miles.