Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #1 (SLAMMIN MIKE) (3-1) - He's stretching out to a mile after finishing 4th of 10, beaten just over a length going 6.5 furlongs here at this level Jan. 8. It was his first local attempt, first off a trainer change to Joel Berndt, and stalker draws a ground-saving post. I give him a slight edge.
2nd pick: #8 (Aloo Ghost) (5-2) - Gelding ships from the Fair Grounds where he finished third in back-to-back starts at this level going around two-turns. He has the best recent figures and this strong finisher is an obvious win candidate.
3rd pick: #2 (Clear the Nile) (9-2) - He's stretching back out after finishing 2.5 lengths behind 'Slammin Pike' going 6.5 furlongs here at this level Jan. 8. Very sharp in his previous pair at this distance, stalker must be left in the mix.
4th pick: #4 (Dyna Ghost) (6-1) - No-speed type is racing himself back into shape after coming off a four-month layoff Nov. 22, He finished a rallying third here at this trip Jan. 15 and a fast and/or contested pace would help his chances out.