Top pick: #5 (TAX ENOUGH) (4-1) - Well-bred colt began his career in England and ran a career best here on Nov. 15 when he rallied to finish second of 10, beaten just over a length racing at this tag going 6.5 furlongs. He's worked well since and the cut-back of a furlong shouldn't pose a problem.
2nd pick: #1 (Papa Smitty) (5-1) - Lightly-raced and speedy filly set a fast pace and weakened to run third, almost 4 back of "Tax Enough" last out. She has the rail, shortens up in distance, and the recently returned Joel Rosario is aboard.
3rd pick: #12 (Steppingood) (9-2) - Gelding has finished second in three of his four starts, the latest coming at Golden Gate Fields Nov. 22 in his first off almost a two month break. Speedy sort should be involved every step.
4th pick: #11 (California Jade) (7-2) - Home-bred has early speed and trainer Bob Hess jr. will drop this gelding into a claimer for the first time. Working fine for his first since Oct. 12 and he must be left in the mix.
5th pick: #9 (Hitter's Alley) (12-1) - He's from the same barn (Pete Miller) as "Smitty" and has been bet in all three starts. Has some ability and can factor at a big price as he tries a synthetic surface for the first time.