The last Major upon us already, season is flying by. Not many better courses about than Baltusrol to host once more. The Robert Trent Jones designed course bears many of his trademarks, the course will test the players well with many of the holes requiring shape to the left or right, a true test of ball control...large green make the approaches seem nice but as is typical of Jones' the greens are large but undulating and quick with large green side bunkers. Jones' aim was to make every hole a " hard par, but an easy bogey"
Not straying too far from the obvious with the winner of this event in 2005 at this course
Phil Mickelson. If Troon has left no mental scars then he's bound to go close, this course is suited perfect for Phil and he's got all the shots to plot his way around and give himself a chance at another big one to add to his CV.
25/1 - Outstanding claims.
Ball striking paradise for
Sergio Garcia. Inventive and crisp shaping from the tee and fairway is a huge bonus and Sergio is excellent producing whatever shot is required. Keep the 3 putts off the stats and Sergio has a great chance to claim that elusive first major. He has finaldayitis though so the cash out button may be pressed if he is contending Sunday!
25/1 - Solid win to place claims if game is coordinating well.
Ever reliable,
Jim Furyk is far from fancy but is ultra consistent and plays really well withing himself. Has hit form quick after missing a fair chunk of the year with injury.
80/1 he has nice place claims. Don't keep backing off those putts Jim!!
Emiliano Grillo 150/1. Has promised to hit the big time ever since turning pro some years back. I followed him closely on the Web . com tour last season where he was a threat in almost every event he played...making the finals and winning the Web.com tour championship earning him his card for this year. Full of promise this lad, fiery and has lovely short game skills and if he can ease himself into It then he has lively place claims.
Plenty of others to note, so little divides so many, the finest of margins and mental lapses can see a certain winner lose or loser turn into a winner.
On the tee from...