Top pick: #2 (HACKLETON) (7-5) - The probable favorite, he finished 2nd here racing for $25K in an "off the turf" contest on Nov 28th and was claimed by trainer Steve Asmussen. New barn has given him almost 7 weeks of rest and brings him back at below the purchase price, a familiar winning move by high profile owner Maggi Moss. Colt tries two-turning today and Dominguez gets aboard.
2nd pick: #6 (Dendrite) (5-1) - He's a much better horse on the grass, but at this low a tag he can compete on the main track. Fits, has a fine work at Belmont 5 days ago, and can factor.
3rd pick: #3 (Promised Destiny) (3-1) - He rallied to finish 2nd here at this level on Dec 13th and defeated "Dendrite" in the process. Lightly raced and well-bred, he can impact again today with a repeat of that effort.
5th pick: #4 (Onewilddriver) (12-1) - Improving a bit of late, he comes off a career best when he finished a distant 2nd here at this level and distance Dec 26th. This field is much tougher, so he needs to step it up some more.