Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #6 (HE'S GOT TALENT) (5-2) - Veteran has been working fast for his first since Oct. 2. Speed-ball is from the high-percentage barn of George Navarro, drops in class, and 6-year-old has done well here in the past 9-3-1-2. Gets a slight edge.
2nd pick: #7 (Saucy Don) (3-1) - He raced a bit 'keyed up' when finishing third here at this distance when facing tougher Dec. 7. It was his first back off a seven week freshening and he draws a fine outside post while dropping down to a new low.
3rd pick: #5 (Ranger in Paradise) (7-2) - Trainer Vic Barboza Jr. is having a career year and is already 7-for-19 (37%) at this meet. This 4-year-old runs first of a claim (a strong 44% angle by the barn) and he moves him up in class for this attempt. A bullet 5 furlong breeze on Dec. 14 indicates he's ready for this attempt.
4th pick: #1 (Royal Mile) (8-1) - Old timer missed by a 'neck' here going a mile for a $12,500 tag Dec. 8 in his first start since Oct. 13. He moves up in class and shortens up in distance, but this race drew deep for the tag and a minor award would appear to be his ceiling.