Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #4 (LIGHT BRIGADE) (7-2) - Colt drew the rail when debuting in a grass sprint Aug 19 at Saratoga. That's a tough post first out and he tired after racing close up to a quick pace. Trainer Chad Brown (28% 2nd time out) has freshened him up since and this $240,000 son of 'War Front' is working steadily for this attempt.
2nd pick: #6 (Our Nation) (8-1) - Debuting colt had a bullet half-mile gate work at Keeneland Oct 17. Shipped here soon after, he went an above average 4-furlongs here Oct 25. In a capable first out barn (Mark Casse 15%) and a threat if he breaks cleanly.
3rd pick: #11 (Oscar Mike) (4-1) - Colt tired badly after chasing the pace while wide going a mile here Oct 18. He had finished 3rd in his first pair sprinting on the grass and trainer Mike Maker brings him back quickly, removes his blinkers, and cuts him back in distance.
4th pick: #3 (Brianbakescookies) (15-1) - Longshot moves up in class after finishing 3rd when debuting here at this distance for a $75,000 claiming price Oct 9. Claimed that day by Des Farrell, it's a negative barn switch. However, the 'figure' earned fits with these and son of 'Giant's Causeway' has a shot at a big price.
5th pick: #2 (Seize) (5-1) - Claiborne home bred makes his debut. Son of 'War Front' has some gaps in his drills, but meets an average looking group in his first appearance. The inside post is not a plus, but he may grab a share if he breaks alertly.