Top pick: #7 (CASTLES BURNING) (5-2) - New York-bred was beaten a 1/2 length here at this level on Dec. 24 when she was out-gamed after being involved a pace fight every step. Stalker draws outside of the speed and that should lead to a less stressful trip. The horse to beat.
2nd pick: #6 (She Really Digs Me) (8-1) - Price play was 2 1/2 back of "Castles" Dec. 24, but came right back with a strong second-place finish just 10 days ago. Once classier mare has raced herself back into shape following a 22 month layoff and is a win candidate.
3rd pick: #3 (Seductora) (4-1) - The main speed, she finished a pace-setting second here at this level on Dec. 11, then tired when forced very wide on Jan. 14 when facing slightly tougher. Fast from the gate, and that makes her dangerous against this field.
4th pick: #8 (Little Italy) (7-2) - Lightly-raced Pa.-bred broke her maiden here as a heavy favorite Nov. 27, then chased and tired to finish third on Dec. 23 in her first against winners. In shape and unlike many others, she still has room for upside.