Top pick: #2 (BRIGAND) (8-5) - Talented runner from the Baffert barn was all over the country in 2012 and appears at his best when racing on conventional dirt (7-3-4-0). When last in action he was winning a 7-furlong stakes at Laurel on Dec. 8 and is training fast for this attempt. Speed/stalker will be tough to beat with his "A" game.
2nd pick: #3 (Socialsaul) (4-1) - Nice effort last out as he finished a close up second to the talented "Saratoga Snacks" whil finishing just in front of the hard-hitting "Saginaw." He's rounding back into form after a pair of layoffs and looks set for a big race.
3rd pick: #4 (Groomedforvictory) (4-1) - One of two runners formerly in the Dutrow barn that are entered and they race uncoupled. He has early speed and defeated weaker at this rip here on Dec. 12. Veteran should be involved turning for home.