Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #2 (SOUTHERN THUNDER) (9-2) - Lightly raced gelding has been freshened up since finishing a pace-chasing 3rd at this level going seven furlongs at Santa Anita Oct. 22. He's been working above average, draws a ground saving post, and gets a slight edge.
2nd pick: #8 (Is Trevor Clever) (3-1) - He's racing second back from a nine-month layoff and is stretching out in distance. Well bred 4yo set a pressured pace and held until the final 1/16th when he tired to finish 4th in his return going seven furlongs at this tag Nov. 24 at Del Mar. In the barn of Peter Miller and a strong win candidate.
3rd pick: #10 (Mr Matlock) (7-2) - State bred is taking a big drop in class while switching from grass to dirt. He has some early speed and must be left in the win mix.
4th pick: #5 (Spend It) (4-1) - 3yo 'won' at this tag and trip here Dec. 1, but was disqualified and placed 2nd. An obvious contender, but this field is much tougher than he faced last out.