Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #1 (CUMBERLAND RIVER) (3-1) - Darley home bred is working very fast for his first since Dec. 29. He raced very poorly that day as the favorite after just missing in his previous race at Gulfstream. Has the rail and Irad Ortiz Jr. stays aboard.
2nd pick: #2 (Virtual Machine) (2-1) - Away since June 18, colt has been competitive the last four times he faced maidens. Speed/stalker has a new trainer (Dave Cannizzo) and he has this 4-year-old working both steadily and above average. If ready, the rest are in serious trouble. A very strong win candidate.
3rd pick: #7 (Strong Side) (8-1) - One of two entered by trainer Mike Hushion and the pair race uncoupled. This lightly-raced 4-year-old has finished second in two straight, one each on dirt and grass. Lightly-raced and improving, he has better early speed than most.
4th pick: #6 (Seat of Honor) (12-1) - Longshot ships from Gulfstream where he raced evenly in a turf race at this level Dec. 26. Competitive on the dirt in the past, he can grab a share at a big price with his 'A' game.