Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #6 (STOCK TRADE) (9-2) - He finished a close-up third here at this level going 7.5 furlongs Dec. 23 in his first race since Oct. 19. Stretch runner has worked three times since and he should receive a fast and/or contested pace to rally into. I give him a slight edge in a contest where you should box the selections.
2nd pick: #2 (Victor Lounge) (6-1) - This Irish import moves up in price in his first off a Mike Maker claim (15% angle). He raced very wide here for a $30K tag the day he changed barns in his first start in just over two months. He has more early speed than most, breaks just off the rail and believe he's dangerous at a square price.
3rd pick: #3 (Cabinet Pick) (12-1) - Longshot moves way up in class following a 4.5 length maiden win her for a $20K claiming price Dec. 26. Competitive in all four grass starts, he's working fast, is lightly raced, and has room for upside.
4th pick: #5 (Eagle Dance) (3-1) - A very lightly raced 4yo by 'Awesome Again', he finished 3rd of 11, beaten 2 lengths here at this level and distance Dec. 23. Claimed that day by leading trainer Jorge Navarro, he wins at a solid 22% rate first off the barn switch.