Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #4 (IMPRESSION) (5-2) - Lightly raced and well bred, this 5yo by 'Smart Strike' has finished 2nd in two straight on the grass while facing tougher. Working steadily for his first since Dec. 3, trainer Rick Mandella drops him into a claimer, and has Mike Smith back aboard.
2nd pick: #1 (Principal Bob) (7-2) - Freshened up for the past two months, one run type had some early traffic issues when he missed by two lengths going nine furlongs at Del Mar facing a bit tougher Nov. 16. Stretch runner is working steadily, drops to a new low, and has a ground saving post. Late threat.
3rd pick: #2 (Traffic Thief) (8-1) - NEW gelding has been on the sidelines since July 4 when he had traffic issues here at this distance for an $85,000 claiming price. Working fast at Los Alamitos for his return, trainer John Sadler (18% off of long layoffs) drops him to a new low. 4yo can factor at a big price if ready.
4th pick: #10 (Odyssey Explorer) (12-1) - No speed type draws a tough outside post for this attempt. He's finished within a reasonable range in four of his last five starts and may grab a share at a big price if the pace is fast and/or contested.