Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #6 (IMSLOPOKERODRIGUEZ) (7-2) - Like several others in this maiden contest, he's making the drop into claimers for the first time. He' racing second back off a 70-day freshening and in his return at Laurel Nov 29 he checked in fourth of 13, beaten just under two lengths facing tougher at this distance on a sloppy surface. Gets a slight edge.
2nd pick: #5 (Ideal Quality) (5-2) - Five-year-old is racing second off a Danny Gargan claim. He finished an even fourth at this $40K tag the day he switched barns. Last out he faced tougher and had a very wide trip. He should factor today as he drops back down.
3rd pick: #3 (Richie's Rich) (4-1) - Stalker chased and weakened late to finish fourth, 1 1/2 lengths in front of 'Ideal Quality.' Four-year-old is racing third back from a seven month layoff and should be set for a competitive effort.
4th pick: #8 (Johnny U) (8-1) - Very fast from the gate, he finished a pace-setting second here at this tag and trip Nov 25. It was his first back from a two month break and his early speed makes him dangerous.
5th pick: #1 (Evolution) (6-1) - Long shot races off a 3 1/2 month layoff and for a new trainer (Dave Cannizzo). New barn drops him down and this speed/stalker is working nicely.