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Derby winner Mine That Bird runs in West Virginia, and Preakness winner Rachel Alexandra takes on Belmont hero Summer Bird in the Haskell.

Mine That Bird makes his first post Triple Crown start at Mountaineer on Saturday, and he’s been training well for his return. A strong effort will propel him to the mid-summer Derby on August 29th.

The West Virginia Derby is not a cakewalk, and Big Drama is a serious prominent throughout threat. Others considered probable are Awesome Rhythm, Miner’s Escape, Monty’s Best, and Soul Warrior.

Also on Saturday, Saratoga plays host to Grade 2 Jim Dandy, the local prep for the Travers Stakes. Kensei has a rematch with vanquished Dwyer foes Convocation and Warrior’s Reward. Peter Pan winner Charitable Man is considered probable.

Speaking of the Spa, Quality Road makes his much anticipated return in the Grade 3 Amsterdam on August 3rd. The six and one half furlong event will serve as a prep for the Travers if all goes well for the Pletcher trainee.

Rachel takes on the boys again at Monmouth on August 2nd. Her early-pressing style at nine furlongs over a speed conducive oval should make her an elusive target, but Kent Desormeaux and Belmont winner Summer Bird won’t go down without a fight. The Tim Ice runner needs pace help.

Talented extended sprinter Munnings tries to stretch his speed another two furlongs, and the Pletcher runner has the raw talent to give Rachel a tussle.

Atomic Rain blew open the Long Branch, the local Haskell prep, and he clearly likes the Jersey shore oval. Note that he was recently purchased by Godolphin and will spend the winter in Dubai.

Papa Clem found some trouble in the Long Branch, but he was never going to beat Atomic Rain. I always thought he was a cut below the best.

Duke Of Mischief has been sensational in his last pair, but the waters get much deeper here. Bunker Hill replaces injured stablemate Musket Man.