Top pick: #8 (BUDDY JONES) (3-1) - He's one of two entered by trainer Linda Rice and the pair race uncoupled. He raced evenly after being "bumped" at the start when debuting here on Feb. 3 racing for a $40K tag. He's worked since, and Rice (19% second time out)will drop his price in half. Her main-rider (Cornelio Velasquez) is back on the re-ride.
2nd pick: #2 (Excess Liquidity) (5-2) - The second of the Rice pair, he races first off a claim and she'll drop him well below the purchase price. Gelding has been disappointing so far, but at this reduced price he should be competitive.
3rd pick: #3 (M.P.Ruckus) (4-1) - He just missed when debuting for a $12.5K tag six days ago and was claimed that day by veteran Ed Barker. Can factor on the quick turnaround.
4th pick: #4 (Hoppy Do) (8-1) - Longshot drops in price, shortens up in distance. and trainer John Toscano will add blinkers. A sharp work six days ago suggests he'll run well at a nice price.