Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #8 (BLACK TIDE) (7-2) - Consistent sort has been freshened up for the past two months. Stretch runner has gone 6-1-3-1 since being claimed by Michelle Nevin for $40,000 out of his maiden win in late April. Four-year-old has finished second in two straight at this level and distance and is working both above average and frequently for his return.
2nd pick: #10 (Ogermeister) (8-1) - Longshot raced evenly here facing $35,000 open 3l claimers Jan 9. It was his first since Nov 14 and stalker is back in with fellow New York breds this afternoon.
3rd pick: #6 (Here Comes Tommy) (3-1) - Stretch runner has improved a lot over the past half year. Consistent home bred rallied to finish second here at this level and distance Jan 16. In shape and a serious threat if he can avoid any traffic issues in this large field.
4th pick: #1a (Super Nicky) (12-1) - Veteran has five lifetime wins and a nice outside post to use his speed from. Fits with his best, but 5-year-old needs to a bit better for anything more than a minor award.
5th pick: #3 (Bustin the Bank) (8-1) - Four-year-old broke his maiden here at this trip just nine days ago. It was a career best overall and came first off a Gary Gullo claim. He has enough speed to stay close early and may grab a share at a big price.