Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #8 (SPORT) (5-1) - Away for a year, he's working steadily, and returns as a NEW gelding. 4yo by 'Hard Spun' had several efforts during 2016 that could win this if he's ready off the long break. He gets a slight edge, but make sure you box your exactas in this contest.
2nd pick: #4 (Frontier Market) (5-2) - The probable favorite, he's another returning from a long layoff (Jan. 6 of 2016). He rallied to finish 2nd that day when debuting for trainer Chad Brown, and is working both steadily and above average for his return. An obvious win candidate if ready.
3rd pick: #7 (Uncle Gio) (6-1) - Shipper moves up in class after missing by a 'head' at Laurel Nov. 23 for a $40,000 claiming price at this distance. The race was his second back from a year's layoff, and the effort gives him a recency edge on both 'Sport' and 'Frontier Market.' It's noted that John Velazquez is aboard.
4th pick: #6 (Arch Daddy) (8-1) - Longshot tired while wide and pressing the pace at this level and distance Nov. 23 at Churchill Downs. Working fast at Payson Park, his early speed makes him dangerous at a square price.
5th pick: #10 (Electro) (6-1) - Lightly raced 3yo has early speed and is improving. $400K gelding by 'Ghostzapper' has a tough post, but should over-come it heading into the first turn. Factors here if that's the case.