Top pick: #4 (FRENCHMAN BAY) (5-1) - He did not have the best of trips last out and rallied to finish third facing a tougher group overall. Trainer Jimmy Jerkens adds lasix and replaces apprentice Cancel with veteran Rajiv Maragh. $360K son of 'Super Saver' looks set for a big effort.
2nd pick: #1a (Tradesman) (5-2) - Promising colt was a 'winner' at Gulfstream Jan. 8th, but was disqualified that afternoon. Home bred by 'Street Sense' finished third in a small stakes in his follow up start two month later and is back in with fellow maidens for this attempt. A strong win candidate.
3rd pick: #7 (To Dare) (15-1) - Longshot is training very fast for his first start since Oct. 30th. Son of 'Curlin' finished behind 'Tradesman' in both races last fall, but runs with blinkers on. May impact at a big price.
4th pick: #9 (Ice Cutter) (4-1) - Lightly raced 4yo by 'Medglia d'Oro' has been on the sidelines since Dec. 11th when he missed by a 'nose' racing at this level and distance on Aqueduct's inner surface. Grey colt was in steady training all winter at Payson Park, but did not start in Florida. Can factor if ready.