Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #1 (CLEAR N CONVINCING) (4-1) - NEW gelding has been idle since June 11 at Belmont. 4yo by 'Giant's Causeway' has been working well above average on the deep surface at Payson Park, and trainer Chad Brown (27% off of long layoffs) has him on the grass for the first time. Gets a slight edge here, but make sure you box your exactas in this race.
2nd pick: #8 (Playing Hooky) (3-1) - He set the pace and held gamely to finish 3rd here at this level and distance Dec. 31. Beautifully bred colt is an obvious win candidate and has a big recency edge on 'Clear N Convincing.'
3rd pick: #7 (Daddy's Cozy) (5-2) - The morning line and probable favorite, he rated, bid, and then weakened late to finish a close up 3rd here going a mile at this level Dec. 15. It was only his second start and first ever on the turf. Leading rider Luis Saez, who had other options, stays with him.