Top pick: #5 (CHARITY REINS) (5-2) - The probable favorite, he finished a strong second here when debuting at this level and distance on Nov. 14th, then ran poorly in his next start when the Nov. 29 contest was switched to the dirt. Son of "War Pass" is training nicely off site and meets a weak field in his 2013 debut.
2nd pick: #8 (Knock Quietly) (4-1) - Veteran is making his 31st start and has picked up minor awards in 13 of his 25 grass appearances. More importantly he's finished second in four of eight on this "tight" course and is a major factor if ready for his first since Dec. 7.
3rd pick: #6 (Privatize) (6-1) - Speedy colt enters in shape and trainer Leah Gyarmati will move him to the grass for the first time. Bred for the surafce and he should be involved every step.
4th pick: #2 (Private Irving A) (10-1) - Longshot has improved since switching to the barn of Jena Antonucci and will be stretching out in distance and trying the grass off a pair of even efforts sprinting on the dirt. Don't just dismiss.
5th pick: #12 (U Whippersnapper) (6-1) - No-speed type he draws a very difficult post for his style. Fits, has a closing kick, but will need some pace help for anything more than a small slice.