Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #9 (ADAIR) (3-1) - The probable favorite, he just failed in his debut Nov 28 at Del Mar racing at this level going a 1/16th farther. He rated just off the pace, rallied while very wide to get a short advantage, then fought it out gamely to check in third of eight, beaten just under a length.
2nd pick: #5 (Captain Carchy) (9-2) - He's finished second in four of his last five starts. Three of those came racing for a $30K tag and the latest Nov 15 at Del Mar was at this $20K claiming price. Working above average, he's done some of his best racing at Santa Anita 7-0-3-2.
3rd pick: #4 (Spirit World) (4-1) - Well bred and lightly-raced, he rallied up the rail to snatch the place spot away from 'Adair' Nov 28 at Del Mar. Three-year-old by 'Ghostzapper' has been sharp in his last pair after tiring in his debut. In the mix.
4th pick: #2 (Financial) (10-1) - Speed/stalker was three lengths behind 'Adair' Nov 28, then missed by a 'neck' at Los Alamitos Dec 13. He faced a much weaker field in that one and will need to step it up some to contend in this spot.
5th pick: #6 (Xerxes) (10-1) - He's the quickest of this group from the gate. He held to finish second last out at Los Alamitos and has since come back with a sharp local work Dec 27. Unable to get a clear advantage in any of his starts, he could prove tough to get by at long odds if he gets an easy early lead for a change.