Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #3 (EXULT) (2-1) - He overcame a disastrous start to finish second when debuting here Jan. 9 at this level and going a mile. Bet down to 5-2 that afternoon, he's worked three times since while trainer Chad Brown has won with 28 of 99 (28%) with second-time starters in 2018-19.
2nd pick: #1 (Seismic Wave) (5-2) - Beautifully bred colt has been on the sidelines since missing by a 'head' at this level Nov. 21 at Aqueduct. Strong finisher lost by a 'neck' when debuting in his previous start at Belmont and he should love this 9-furlong distance. A strong win candidate, I could just have easily made him the top selection.
3rd pick: #6 (Henry's Bend) (20-1) - Longshot ships back from Tampa Bay Downs where he finished 4th of 10, beaten 2.5 lengths going a mile Jan. 19. He's worked fast twice since and runs today with blinkers on. He may grab a share at a big price,
4th pick: #7 (Red Sorrell) (4-1) - He rallied to finish third here when debuting Dec. 1 at 7.5 furlongs. Colt raced far back early, then had some traffic issues at the head of the stretch. Bred for this longer distance, trainer Mike Maker has John Velazquez aboard for this attempt.