Top pick: #5 (SOCCERHOLIC) (3-1) - He runs second back off a seven week break following a claim by the high percentage barn of Pete Walder. Gelding has a speed/stalking style, ran a solid third in his return, and has "wet" track experience.
2nd pick: #3 (Little Bart) (4-1) - The main speed of this field, he exits the same Nov. 10th race as "Soccer," and he set a solid pace before weakening in the final furlong. His speed makes him a very serious player.
3rd pick: #6 (Green Diamond Cat) (6-1) - Unraced since late August, he has a sharp recent work at Calder, and trainer Larry bates will be dropping into a claimer for the first time.