Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #8 (UNO BABY BIRD) (5-1) - Colt tired after chasing a quick pace debuting here in a 5.5-furlong sprint facing tougher Sept. 29. Working fast for his return, trainer Kathy Ritvo, 8-for-28 (29%) at the meet drops him way down in class while stretching him out to a mile. 3yo draws a fine outside post and he gets my vote.
2nd pick: #7 (Consilium) (6-1) - Improving colt has finished second in two straight here at this distance facing weaker. He missed by a 'neck' Jan. 16, earned a career best figure, and is a threat despite moving up in price.
3rd pick: #5 (Holy Muchacho) (3-1) - Strange to see a Triple Crown nominee seeking his maiden win in a $25K claimers, but that's the case with this colt by 'Macho Uno'. He's been in with much tougher in all three attempts and has had excuses in each. He's a win candidate in this spot.
4th pick: #6 (Embrace My Uncle) (7-2) - He moves back to the dirt after an even and troubled effort here going a mile on the grass for a $50K tag Feb. 20. Gelding ran second here at that same level and distance Dec. 29 and he drops down to a new low in price today.