Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #6 (WADE) (7-5) - The probable favorite, he has the best early speed and has been sharp in four of five starts when facing off against fellow Cal-breds. In shape, working fast, and his best overall came here when he missed by a 'head' Sept 13. His outside post gives jockey Mario Gutierrez some early options. The horse to beat.
2nd pick: #3 (Son of a Royal) (5-2) - Gelding was involved in a pace-duel and held down the place spot Nov 29 at Del Mar. It was his first since May 1, first on real dirt, and it represented a career best overall. Dangerous if he doesn't 'bounce' on a quick turnaround.
3rd pick: #2 (Ace Deuce) (6-1) - Veteran maiden is going turf to dirt and cutting back in distance. One of two entered by trainer Vann Belvoir, he may grab a share at a square price.
4th pick: #5 (Itsgettinghotinhere) (8-1) - The second of the Belvoir duo, he has absolutely no early speed. Gelding by 'Unusual Heat' is racing second off a 10-month layoff and will need a fast and/or contested pace for anything more than a minor award.