Top pick: #2 (SIR CADIAN) (4-1) - As consistent (16-2-9-2) as they come at this level and he comes into this off a three solid efforts in a row, the laste a second-place finish at this condition and distance on Dec. 4. Working fast since, including a bullet 5/8ths six days ago and he'll be tough from this nice post draw.
2nd pick: #7 (Shotinthefog) (5-2) - In the high-percentage barn of Ray Moya, gelding finished second here at this level on Dec. 29 in his first for Moya and first ever on this surface. Major threat.
3rd pick: #6 (Armed Intelligence) (3-1) - He moves up out of starter-allowances to face tougher and this 5-year-old has an excellent ovedrall record (12-5-2-4), with all five career wins coming here. Obvious contender despite the class rise.
5th pick: #8 (Coach) (10-1) - Colt had some promise earlier in his career but has been plagued by layoff. He has fine early speed and is working nicely for his first start since Nov. 21. 4-year-old draws a tough outside post and will nedd to be sent hard into the first turn. His task is difficult, but not impossible.