American Pharoah Returns in $1.75 Million Haskell Invitational

American Pharoah has been tabbed as the overwhelming favorite at odds of 1-5 on the morning line for Bob Baffert. Bred and owned by Zayat Stables, the bay son of Pioneerof the Nile has won his last seven starts and became the first horse since 1978 to claim the Triple Crown with a stunning victory in the Belmont Stakes (G1). He has been training forwardly in preparation for this race and will have Victor Espinoza aboard from post position four.

Upstart back in action after poor Kentucky Derby

Upstart is the second choice at 6-1 on the morning line for trainer Rick Violette.  He has been on the board in seven of his eight starts and his lone blemish came when he was eased in the Kentucky Derby (G1). Since that race, he has been training sharply and has clocked a recent bullet workout. He will have Joe Bravo in the irons from the rail as he tries for his second career graded stakes win.

Competitive Edge trying to rebound 

Also in the field at morning line odds of 8-1 is Competitive Edge for trainer Todd Pletcher. A bay son of Super Saver, he was purchased for $750,000 as a juvenile and has won four of his five starts. He suffered the first defeat of his career last time out in the Woody Stephens (G2) with a sixth-place finish. Mike Smith will be aboard and they are scheduled to break from post position two.