Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #4 (INSCOM) (7-2) - Colt was one of many that had a rough trip in Del Mar's Cecille B. DeMille Mile Stakes (G3) Nov. 26. It was his first facing winners following a very sharp maiden win here at this distance Oct. 27. Working above average and I like his chances.
2nd pick: #7 (Pubilius Syrus) (9-5) - He was two lengths in front of 'Inscom' last out after beating that rival by a 'nose' here Sept. 30. Strong finisher is an obvious threat in this $75,000 stakes.
3rd pick: #3 (Choo Choo) (9-2) - Son of grass champ 'English Channel' was almost 2 lengths in back of 'Pubilius' last out while a long 'neck' in front of 'Inscom'. Calumet home bred is clearly improving and the very selective Mike Smith stays aboard.
4th pick: #5 (East Rand) (4-1) - He enters off a rallying third place finish Nov. 26 that saw him behind 'Pubilius' but jut ahead of both 'Inscom' and 'Choo Choo'. By far a career best,it was his first start in two months and first off a private trainer change to Jeff Mullins. Must be left in the mix.