Top pick: #1 (LONG RIVER) (3-5) - Darley home-bred by "A.P. Indy" improved considerably in his second start to finish second at this level going a "flat" mile at Belmont Oct. 13. Training in fast fashion for this, he draws near the rail and is bred to love this two-turn distance. The horse to beat.
2nd pick: #5 (Bellamy Beach) (6-1) - Pletcher-trained colt raced evenly when debuting at a "flat" mile at Laurel Nov. 23. He had some trouble at the break and had to run wide for most of the contest. Barn brings him back quickly and he had a sharp work at Belmont six days ago.
3rd pick: #2 (Mr Palmer) (4-1) - All four of his starts have come in Kentucky and last out ran a career best when rallying to finish third at this level and distance at Churchill on Nov. 3. Has the rail, is the type that never tires, and is a stretch threat.