Bayern Trying to Return to Form in $200,000 San Diego Handicap

Despite his inconsistent recent form, Bayern has been tabbed as the morning line favorite at odds of 5-2 for trainer Bob Baffert. A four-year-old son of Offlee Wild, he has not hit the board since winning the Breeders’ Cup Classic (G1) last fall as a sophomore. He is trying to rebound after finishing tenth in the Met Mile (G1) at Belmont Park last time out. Regular rider Martin Garcia will be aboard and they will break from post position four.

Catch a Flight (ARG) going for third graded stakes win of the year

Second choice at 3-1 on the morning line is Catch a Flight (ARG) for trainer Richard Mandella. A five-year-old son of Giant’s Causeway, he has won nine of his sixteen starts and has won two graded stakes since beginning his North American career. Last time out, he was third in the Gold Cup at Santa Anita (G1) after back to back victories. Gary Stevens will be in the irons from post six.

Sahara Sky trying to extend his speed to two turns

Also in the field at morning line odds of 8-1 is the veteran Sahara Sky for trainer Jerry Hollendorfer. A seven-year-old son of Pleasant Tap, he is an eight time winner and is stretching out to two turns after being primarily successful sprinting. He was fifth last time out in the Triple Bend (G1) at Santa Anita in June. James Graham will be aboard and they are scheduled to break from the outside post.