Top pick: #5 (TROPILUK) (2-1) - It's taken him five starts, but this gelding has raced himself back into shape after being away for almost 7 1/2 months. Speed/stalker was a winner here at this claiming price and distance Feb. 18th in his best overall since returning. 6yo proved a year ago that he's capable of stringing good starts together, and he's the horse to beat.
2nd pick: #4 (Star Surprise) (6-1) - He enters in good form and has been competitive here in four straight at this tag. Old timer has won two of four on 'off' surfaces, and there is rain expected in the Phoenix area this afternoon.
3rd pick: #1 (Northern Choice) (5-2) - No speed type got a quick and contested pace to close into here on Feb. 3rd, and he rallied up the inside to win 'going away.' 11-time winner is three for nine on 'wet' tracks and must be left in the mix.