Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #7 (JESSE JAMES) (8-1) - Longshot is training nicely for his first since Dec 12 and first at Sam Houston. Well bred 5-year-old showed good early speed last out at Remington Park before weakening during the stretch run. It was an encouraging effort and it came in his third back off nine months on the sidelines. He draws outside of the speed types and has a shot at a big price.
2nd pick: #3 (Drink to Me) (5-1) - Grey gelding rallied to finish second of 11, beaten just under two lengths when racing here at this level and distance Jan 16. Nice effort and it's a big plus to see him stringing starts together after returning from a 17 month absence Nov 14.
3rd pick: #2 (I See Back) (6-1) - He exits the same Jan 16 local race as 'Drink to Me'. Five-year-old pressed the pace and tired late to check in third, just a bit over a length in back of that rival. It was his best overall since the spring of 2014. Can factor at a square price if it's repeatable.
4th pick: #8 (Wildcat J D ) (3-1) - Speed/stalker is working on the quick side here for his first start since Oct 17. At that time he had finished second in both starts at this level at Retama Park. Six-year-old must be left in the mix, but he may be over-bet.