Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #6 (QUASAR MOON) (2-1) - NEW gelding has been on the sidelines since finishing third here at this distance facing tougher on the grass. Trainer Todd Pletcher wins at an 18% rate off of long layoffs, is at 23% on the turf to dirt move, and most importantly, he scores at a 35% clip when dropping maidens into claimers for the first time. This $180K purchase will be tough in this spot.
2nd pick: #8 (Roddick) (3-1) - He's finished 2nd in both starts sprinting and is stretching out from 6 furlongs to a mile for this attempt. Stretch runner draws a fine outside post, has a sharp local work Dec 15, and should factor today.
3rd pick: #2 (The Kid in Syd) (6-1) - Kentucky invader is another that's stretching out to a mile. He's raced evenly in both sprints at Churchill Downs and has some traffic issues in his latest. Colt is capable of getting a share.
4th pick: #1 (Dad's Yankees) (12-1) - He showed some early speed last before weakening late to finish 2 lengths in back of 'Roddick' going 6 furlongs Nov 17. Longshot has the rail and I think he may hold a minor award at a big price.