Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #11 (ITALIAN SYNDICATE) (5-2) - The morning line favorite, he rallied to finish a distant secnd here at this level and distance Dec 17. Only his second career start, it came off a 4.5 month layoff. He gets a slight edge over the rail runner.
2nd pick: #1 (Chatter Pattern) (5-1) - Freshened up since Nov 12, gelding is dropping to a new low for the Rodriguez barn. Home bred has the rail, early speed, and should be involved every step. Win candidate.
3rd pick: #8 (Discreet Encounter) (10-1) - Colt drops down and is cutting back in distance. He enters off a very wide trip going a mile in the mud facing tougher Dec 1. Capable sprinting and he had finished within range in his previous four starts.
4th pick: #12 (Right Ben) (12-1) - Longshot has a bit of speed and is racing off a two month break. He may set a good trip outside the front runners and grab a share at a very big price.