Top pick: #9 (PAUL'S ACE) - Fast and fresh. New York-bred is here specifically for the grass racing. Working sharply for his return from a 70-day break, he ran his best ever in his debut (on the grass) when he finished second. Coa climbs aboard and this colt is the pick.
2nd pick: #6 (Echo in Eternity) - First-timer hails from the hottest barn since the meet started (Ken McPeek {27-9-2-2}). Runner cost almost a quarter million and looks well-prepared for his debut. Jockey Kent Desormeaux has ridden most of the trainer's wins at the meet.
3rd pick: #7 (Braciole) - Son of "Not For Love" has had the past three months to grow and mature. Underrated barn (Pat Reynolds) and his latest work is very fast. Trainer names his go-to rider (J.J.Castellano). They win at a fine 23% when teamed up.
4th pick: #4 (Fullof song) - Has some speed, a recent race (Jan. 16), and will try the grass for the initial time.
5th pick: #2 (Dukes Alley) - Makes his first start on the turf off a two-month break. Recent work activity is steady(six days apart) and in some cases much quicker than average. Draws the shortest way home.