Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #3 (KISMET'S HEELS) (5-2) - He's one of two entered by trainer Todd Pletcher and the pair race uncoupled. Son of 'Tapit' rallied from far back following a slow start to finish second of 121, beaten a length racing here at this level Dec 12. $900,000 2-year-old in training purchase has worked four times since and travels an additional furlong today. Gets a slight edge over his barn-mate.
2nd pick: #6 (Gimlet) (3-1) - The second of the Pletcher pair, he exits the same last race as 'Kismet's Heels.' Colt was taken well off the pace before rallying while extremely wide to finish fourth, only a bit more than a length behind that rival. Son of 'Lemon Drop Kid' has worked four times for this attempt and he gives trainer Pletcher a very strong hand in this maiden event.
3rd pick: #1 (Nana Looch) (6-1) - Un-raced since Nov 28, he was in over his head that day in a G2 stakes on the Churchill dirt labeled sloppy that afternoon. Son of 'Hard Spun' had finished second in his first pair facing maidens, one each on dirt and grass. He has the rail, positional speed, and races with blinkers on.
4th pick: #12 (Hint of Roses) (15-1) - Long winded type draws his third straight outside post. Ramsey home bred is working fast for his second back from a 70 day freshening and son of 'Tapit' is on the turf for the first time.
5th pick: #10 (Little Scotty) (10-1) - Grey colt has been competitive in his first three starts, all on the grass. He raced wide last out, but was only beaten 3 1/2 lengths at this nine furlong trip Dec 19. Capable of getting a slice of this at a big price.