Top pick: #2 (MASCAVO) (5-1) - Speedy colt races third off almost a two month freshening and the high-percentage barn of Ray Moya will cut him back in distance. He set a solid pace last out going a mile on Dec. 24 and will be cutting back in distance this afternoon. Lightly-raced 4-year-old can take this at a square price.
2nd pick: #5 (Belle's Big Boy) (5-2) - Grey gelding has a good closing kick and last out rallied to finish fourth at this level and distance a week ago. 4-year-old had a tough outside post that day and draws much better today. Win candidate.
3rd pick: #3 (Our Nino) (4-1) - Jersey-bred runs third off almost an eight week break and will be shortening up in distance after going a mile in his return pair. Fits and he seems best in sprints.
5th pick: #8 (H O's Birthday) (4-1) - He just missed two back here at this level and distance, then ran evenly in his latest facing tougher. Drops down for this and looks like gelding can contend in this spot.