Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #7 (MR SHIPMAN) (7-2) - Lightly-raced colt is one of two entered by trainer Jorge Navarro and the pair race as separate betting interests. He was an easy maiden winner going 5.5-furlongs at Gulfstream Park West for a $25,000 claiming price Nov 5. In his follow up start here Dec 6, he rated and made a strong bid while widest, then held gamely to check in second of eight, beaten a 1/2 length. Barn drops him down and he's the horse to beat.
2nd pick: #1 (Flashing Light) (3-1) - Throw out a 'troubled' outing in a stakes Aug 8 and this gelding hasn't been worse than fourth in his other six starts. Home bred is 4-2-1-0 at Gulfstream, is in shape, and breaks from the rail. Win candidate.
3rd pick: #3 (Neuk) (10-1) - The second of the Navarro pair, he's training fast for his first start since Nov 18. Stalker needs to step it up to challenge the top pair, but his works indicate that he's an improved runner.
4th pick: #5 (Dean of Salsa) (8-1) - Colt takes a big drop in class and is shortening back up in distance. He tired badly going a one-turn mile for a $35K tag Nov 27. It was his first following a Steve Klesaris claim and a subsequent seven week freshening. Working fine and barn drops him under the claimed price in this spot.