Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #3 (WHEELS UP NOW) (5-2) - He's one of two entered by trainer Tom Albertrani and the pair race uncoupled. This colt by 'Smart Strike' cost $450,000 as a yearling back in Sept of 2014. Improving sort has finished second in two straight, the latest coming here at this level going a one-turn mile Dec 26. Colt is bred to love this 9-furlong trip and gets the call.
2nd pick: #4 (Toughest 'Ombre) (10-1) - The second of the Albertrani colts, he rallied to finish fourth in the same last race as 'Wheels Up Now.' Home bred was racing first off a 3 1/2 month layoff and had shown talent back in September at Aqueduct. Can factor at a big price.
3rd pick: #5 (Kelly Tough) (6-1) - He sold for $250,000 as a 2-year-old in training last April at Ocala. Son of 'Quality Road' chased and held to finish second here at this level going seven furlongs Jan 16. Trainer Ed Plesa Jr. (32% second-time out) stretches him out on a 22 day turnaround.
4th pick: #1 (Cumberland River) (4-1) - Godolphin owned son of 'Distorted Humor' has been freshened up since late October. He ran deceptively well that afternoon at Belmont and is training very fast at Palm Meadows for his return.
5th pick: #2 (Majesto) (6-1) - Competitive in his first pair, $300K son of 'Tiznow' did not fire here at this level and distance Jan 9. He had a good spot to strike from but just did not go on with it. Stalker draws a nice post and look for him to run much better in this spot.