Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #6 (COLLUDE) (5-2) - This filly from the Asmussen barn has been competitive in four of five attempts and enters off an even 3rd place finish here for a $50K tag Feb. 27. It was her second back from a seven-month layoff, and she's dropping down a bit on a 22-day turnaround. I give her top billing today.
2nd pick: #7 (Lil Red Vette) (5-1) - She tired going a mile here on a muddy surface for a $50K tag Feb. 20. Much sharper in several sprints prior to that, she has early speed and should be involved every step here.
3rd pick: #4 (Javistha) (6-1) - On the sidelines since late July, home bred was competitive in two of three last summer at Prairie Meadows facing tougher. Working steadily, she's in a claimer for the first time. A threat if ready.
4th pick: #9 (Adhwaa) (8-1) - Well bred filly drops into a claimer after facing tougher in her first four outings. She earned a good figure Dec. 1 at Churchill that fits with this group, and she may factor at a big price.
5th pick: #1 (Graysonsmacho Gal) (9-2) - She has no early speed, but she did rally to finish a distant 2nd here at this distance Feb. 2 for a $50K tag. She showed nothing going 8.5 furlongs in her follow up Feb. 22 and is back down in class while shortening up in distance. A fast and/or contested pace would help her chances out.