Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #4 (FREEWHEELER) (8-5) - A lightly raced son of 'City Zip,' he's training steadily locally for his first start since Nov. 9. He went 3-1-1-0 last year, all in grass sprints and was stakes placed. He broke his maiden here when debuting at this distance Aug. 30, and this $430,000 purchase can win this if ready.
2nd pick: #9 (Crack Shot) (3-1) - Very fast from the gate, he set a quick pace before weakening to check-in 3rd here at this level and distance July 22. He was racing second back following a 7.5-month layoff and is a strong win candidate.
3rd pick: #8 (Noble Emotion) (9-2) - A NEW gelding, he's been idle since late October. Competitive in two of three last year and his running lines are loaded with talented horses. Training steadily, he's a factor if ready.
4th pick: #1 (Veteran's Beach) (5-1) - A 4yo homebred, he's been on the sidelines for just under a year. Another NEW gelding, he fits if ready and runs off a private trainer change to Chris Clement.