Top pick: #3 (OUR ELI) - He ran a huge race on this surface Dec. 28 when he finished second facing "open" maidens in the best start in his 11 race career. Gelding has now run second in both races on this inner-surface and moves back in with weaker state-breds this afternoon. The horse to beat.
2nd pick: #5 (This Hard Land) - He finished about 3 lengths back of "Eli" last out, so he's also moving back in with fellow New York-breds this afternoon. Likes this surface (5-0-3-1), and he's a major factor from off the pace.
3rd pick: #4 (Alarmist) - He's been competitive in most of his starts (all sprints) and has defied the odds by racing with a "bar" shoe on in six straight outings. Tries a two-turn distance for the first time and his trainer (Leah Gyarmati) is enjoying a fine meet (6-3-2-3). He should be involved from gate to wire.