In the run-up to NYCM, I read that Ritz wanted a 2:08-2:10 to show him that he was ready to run 2:06 or faster in London. I believe he mentioned the London marathon specifically, by name. But he's not in the men's elite field.
Prior to this, I didn't think it was especially significant that he (and Rupp) will be running an XC race in Scotland next month - it's a separate race from the "proper" Edinburgh XC featuring top Kenyans, and sounded more like an obligatory appearance (apparently Salazar helped organize or promote the "team challenge") than a serious step towards the WXC championships in Spain.
Now I'm not so sure. Is Ritz reconsidering whether he wants to be, or is cut out to be, a full-time marathoner? Or will both he and Meb be in the Boston field, along with Hall? Alternatively, he could look for a fast spring marathon elsewhere - Rotterdam? - but surely London and Boston pay better.
Which is most likely - a spring marathon, an XC season culminating at worlds, or neither?