Top pick: #1a (VIVA ALLEGIANCE) (2-1) - Lightly-raced filly is part of an entry from leading trainer Dave Jacobson and he has separate riders listed on each. She's been sharp in all four of her starts on the grass and was a winner here at this tag on the turf Nov. 15 to clear the 2l condition. Speed/stalker is trying the dirt for the first time and is the horse to beat if she takes to it.
2nd pick: #5 (Mess in a Dress) (5-1) - Veteran comes off a fine effort at Belmont Oct. 25 when she chased a gate-to-wire winner and held to finish third when racing at this level and distance. One-paced type is a threat with a repeat of it.
3rd pick: #7 (Sugar Beach) (6-1) - Mare hasn't raced since late March when she won on this surface going 7-furlongs. Working steadily and her trainer (Chris Englehart) wins at a solid 20% rate off of extened layoffs.
4th pick: #6 (My Bella Beauty) (4-1) - She goes turf-to-dirt, stretches out in distance, and is racing third back off a two month break. She has some ability, and her best could land her a share.