Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #1 (LEADING WEST) (4-1) - He missed by a 'head' here at this level and distance Dec 7 in his first race in 2.5 months and first on the grass. In his follow up Jan 18, he had very serious traffic issues when beaten 3 lengths. Colt has worked since, draws the rail, and I like his chances.
2nd pick: #3 (This I'll Defend) (9-2) - NEW gelding has finished within range in all three starts on the grass. Like 'Leading West', he had major traffic problems last out when he missed by 1.5 lengths here Jan 18. A win candidate.
3rd pick: #9 (Pricing Exercise) (3-1) - A debuting son of 'Palace Malice', he's from the barn of Chad Brown 21% first out in 2019-20. Training steadily at the Payson Park Center, it's noted that he has leading rider Irad Ortiz Jr aboard.
4th pick: #4 (Battalion) (9-2) - Colt set a pressured pace before weakening late to check in 3rd of 9, missing by 2.5 lengths here Jan 26. It was his first on the grass and a huge improvement off his dirt debut Jan 11. In the mix.