Top pick: #7 (FRENCHMAN BAY) (8-1) - I liked him last time but he didn't fire after racing between horses for much of the trip. Trainer Jimmy Jerkens adds blinkers (22%) and this $360K colt by "Super Saver" has a trio of sharp works since his latest. Has a solid shot at a square price.
2nd pick: #6 (Dreaming of Gold) (7-2) - Logical contender moves to the dirt after coming up a "neck" short in a pair of local grass races to begin his career. He's always worked fast on the main track and he's a strong win candidate in this spot.
3rd pick: #10 (Jambles) (2-1) - The probable favorite, he raced evenly here when debuting in a one-turn mile Jan. 8. He improved significantly next out when stretched out around two-turns as he finished a pace-chasing second going 9-furlongs. Working well since, in the Pletcher barn, and an obvious danger at a short price.
4th pick: #1 (Shaman Ghost) (15-1) - He's gong turf to dirt in his first start since Jan. 3. Stronach home bred has shown some ability and is working nicely for this attempt. Bred to handle this trip and draws the ground saving rail. Can get a share at a big price.
5th pick: #3 (Strike a Balance) (20-1) - He's from the same barn as "Shaman" (Brian Lynch) and is racing for the first time since late October. He's running as a new gelding and with Lasix added. Working above average and he's been bet in both previous starts on the grass. Interesting longshot.