Top pick: #8 (SONGA) (7-2) - He's stretching out in distance after a very sharp sprint win on Nov. 27. In a top barn (Jorge Navarro), stalker draws a nice post and the "figure" earned last out is the best of any entered in recent starts.
2nd pick: #4 (Nevsky) (8-1) - One of two entered by trainer Marty Wolfson and the pair race uncoupled. No-speed type is racing first off a claim and last out rallied to finish second going 7-furlongs.
3rd pick: #7 (Viramundo) (8-1) - The second of the Wolfson pair, he ran poorly from a tough outside post here going 1 1/8th miles in a a $200K stakes Dec. 6. It was his first since March 13th and is dropping way down in class. John Velazquez's presence is duly noted.
4th pick: #6 (Exploring) (12-1) - Freshened up since early Sept., gelding is working sharply, fits on figures and the distance is fine. This is a tough spot but he's capable with his best.