Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #1 (EXACTAMENTE) (7-2) - Filly is dropping into a claimer for the first time and is shortening up in distance. Stalker has the rail, meets a weak looking group, and it's Kent Desormeaux riding for brother Keith. Gets a slight edge.
2nd pick: #7 (Mint Julep Taffy) (4-1) - Speedy sort is racing second off a two month break and is another dropping into a claimer for the first time. Competitive in the past facing tougher, she should be involved every step. Win candidate.
3rd pick: #9 (Of Course It Is) (6-1) - One of two entered by trainer Phil D'Amato, she raced evenly after a troubled break when debuting at this level Sept 11 at Los Alamitos. She's worked twice since and has blinkers added (a 27% winning angle from the barn).
4th pick: #11 (Amare) (8-1) - The second of the D'Amato pair, she has early speed and is dropping sharply in class for her second off a two month freshening. A 'live' long shot.
5th pick: #6 (Lov Fool) (8-1) - She rallied to finish third at this tag Sept 12 at Los Alamitos. A career best, she may grab another minor award with a bit more improvement as she meets a tougher field.