Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #4 (EL AREEB) (7-5) - He's won four in a row, the last three of those coming in stakes. He won the local Jerome (G3) at this distance Jan. 2, then easily defeated several of today's rivals in the Withers (G3) Feb. 4. Training fast at his home base of Laurel, he'll be tough to beat if he holds his form.
2nd pick: #1 (J Boys Echo) (8-1) - Strong finisher rallied to finish a distant 3rd to 'El Areeb' Feb. 4. However, it was his first start in 2.5 months, and he had a poor outside post (10th of 10). He moves to the rail, and I believe he's a serious threat at a square price.
3rd pick: #6 (True Timber) (4-1) - Speedy colt set the pace before weakening to finish 2nd to 'El Areeb' in the Withers Stakes Feb. 4. Working very fast, he doesn't necessarily need the lead to be competitive.
4th pick: #10 (Action Everyday) (81-1) - With a trio of late scratches this $400,000 colt by 'The Factor' moves in some from his 10-post. He's won both starts at Tampa Bay Downs, is working fast, and is from the Pletcher barn. Trainer adds blinkers, so expect this colt to be sent hard at the break.