Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #4 (PUERTORICANSTYLE) (3-1) - Colt had all sorts of problems racing here for a $25K tag going a mile on the turf Dec 23. It was his first since Oct 27 and first off a trainer change to Phil Serpe. He brings him back in 4 weeks, drops him in half, switches him to the dirt, and shortens him up in distance. 3yo showed good speed last fall in Kentucky facing tougher on the dirt and it's noted that leading jockey Luis Saez stays aboard.
2nd pick: #9 (Particularity) (6-1) - Price play is lightly raced, dropping down, switches from grass to dirt, and runs 2nd back following a 5 month layoff. He's been bet in all three starts and looks set for a big effort.
3rd pick: #6 (Dreaming of J C) (5-2) - The morning line favorite was bothered at the break and tired after rushing up to contest the pace here at this level Jan 1. It was his first since Nov 16 and first off a private trainer change to Angel Rodriguez. Lightly raced colt should be in this from gate-to-wire.
4th pick: #10 (El Guerrero Azteca) (9-2) - He's finished 2nd in 4 of 6 sprinting on the dirt and was in front of the troubled 'Dreaming of J C' at the finish here Jan 1. Stalker fits, but needs to avoid a wide trip for his best chance at the top prize.