Top pick: #1 (NANTUCKETEER) (3-1) - One of several speed types, he has the rail and in this abbreviated grass sprint that gives him a slight edge. Last out he chased a fast pace and held gamely to finish second here at this tag and trip on Jan. 7. It was his first start in almost four months and he's the horse to beat.
2nd pick: #6 (Orchlee) (7-2) - He's one of two entered by trainer George Weaver and the pair race uncoupled. Grey gelding raced evenly here in his debut and was only 2 1/2 lengths back of "'Nantucketeer." An 18% second out barn adds blinkers and gives him a rider upgrade to Paco Lopez. Win threat.
3rd pick: #8 (Toroparu) (5-2) - Another that's very fast from the gate, he's working well for his first start in two months. Not as fast as "Nantucketeer," so he'll need to try and rate off of that rival and make one run.
4th pick: #7 (George Jet) (6-1) - He enters of a career best when finishing a "nose" in front of "Orchlee" last out. One-run type is improving and should get a quick pace to rally into.
5th pick: #5 (Luv Dakota Style) (20-1) - Longshot is the second of the Weaver pair. He ships from Aqueduct presumably because he prefers racing on the grass. Capable of being competitive at a big price.