Top pick: #9 (LA MALANDRINA) - She comes off a career best figure when she raced evenly here at tis price going 5.5 furlongs on Dec. 17. It was her first start since May 8 and first off a positive trainer change to Nick Canani. She's worked since, stretches-out to a "flat" mile, and draws the best post at this trip. The horse to beat.
2nd pick: #6 (Anthensome) - She tired badly after racing close-up here at this level and trip on Dec. 16 and was beaten by some of today's rivals. Effort was only her third since May and she'e come back with a 5-furlong drill on the Dec. 28. Desormeaux stays put and he wins at a 37% rate when riding for trainer Bob Hess Jr.
3rd pick: #3 (Lucky and Sweet) - Mare is running for the 20th time and has only one exacta appearance amongst them. She's been competitive in three of her last four, and ran third here last out at this trip and tag. Stretch threat.