Top pick: #6 (HOPE STILL SPRINGS) - He's improving and last out ran a career best when he missed by a 1/2 length at this level and distance here on Nov. 19. Race was his first on the grass and trainer Bruce Brown brings him back on short notice. The horse to beat.
2nd pick: #4 (American Buffalo) - He's run well in both starts and was just under two back of "Springs" last out after starting from a tough outside post and having a very wide trip. Draws better this afternoon and is a win candidate in this spot.
3rd pick: #7 (Alarmed Ndangerous) - He's clearly better on the grass and this colt by "Silver Wagon" rallied to finish second here on Nov. 4 at this trip and condition. Trainer Linda Rice has given him a month to recover and he's a stretch threat this afternoon.