Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #6 (RHETORICAL) (8-5) - One of two entered by leading trainer Bob Diodoro, and the pair race uncoupled. This veteran gelding has won both starts at this meet since coming off a 3.5-month vacation Oct. 17th. He's finished 1st or 2nd in 20 of 34 starts on the dirt and is 8-4-1-3 at this distance.
2nd pick: #5 (Biltmore Boogie) (2-1) - The second of the Diodoro pair, he's won two of three at the meet, and has a fine overall record at this trip (8-3-2-2). Speed/stalker is as consistent as they come at this level, and he completes a strong hand from the barn.
3rd pick: #7 (Tizaplayer) (8-1) - Longshot drops in class after tiring here facing tougher Dec. 13th. It was his first start in 11.5 months, and he may grab a share with that come-backer out of the way.