Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #6 (MASTER MERION) (2-1) - Very consistent gelding also has a flexible running style. He won here at this distance in his West Coast debut Aug. 12 and followed that up with a sharp win going shorter in a $250,000 stakes at Kentucky Downs Sept. 14. Freshened up since, he'll be tough to beat with his normal effort.
2nd pick: #1 (Van Cortland) (12-1) - Big longshot moves up in class and shortens up a furlong after a win at Santa Anita going nine furlongs facing weaker Oct. 15. Sharp effort was his first since Aug. 20 when he was claimed here for $50,000 by trainer Vlad Cerin. Stalker has a good post and is a late threat at a big price.
3rd pick: #2 (Holiday Stone) (7-2) - Speedy colt finished third last out at Kentucky Downs while almost three lengths in back of 'Master Merion'. He's been working fast at Keeneland since then and should be in this from start-to-finish in his West Coast debut.
4th pick: #3 (Kitten's Cat) (9-2) - He was a bit sub par last out when he raced evenly while in back of both 'Master Merion' and 'Holiday Stone' at Kentucky Downs. He's won stakes on the grass in the past and has placed in several others. Can factor with his 'A' game.