Top pick: #11 (COUNTKNICKERBOCKER) (6-1) - He was in a great spot turning for home last out, but seemed a bit uncomfortable trying to rally up the inside. He travels an extra furlong, draws a nice outside post, and races second off a two month break.
2nd pick: #9 (Carson Bandit) (10-1) - Longshot shortens up in distance after a pace-chasing third place finish here at this level going 8.5 furlongs Oct. 5. He's back in shape following a ninemonth layoff and is a threat at a square price.
3rd pick: #5 (Precious Metal) (15-1) - Another longshot, he moves back in with state-breds for the first time since last winter. He's won three times on the grass and twice on this surface.
4th pick: #4 (Hooked Forever) (12-1) - He's improved dramatically over the past several months and strong finisher should get a fast and/or contested pace to rally into.
5th pick: #1 (Madame I'm Adam) (3-1) - Gelding runs third back from a seven week freshening and finished second here at this level and distance just one week ago. He draws a tricky post in this large field and will need a "smart ride." Can factor, but will be over-bet.