Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #1 (DISTINCTIVE B) (5-2) - Speedy veteran has been on the sidelines for the past three months. He's working steadily, drops in class, and breaks from the rail. There is other speed signed on, but his ability to rate at times gives him the edge if ready.
2nd pick: #7 (Boy Howdy) (6-1) - Lightly raced 5yo moves up in class after missing by a 'neck' facing weaker Nov. 25 at Del Mar. It was his second back off a 4.5-month layoff and earned him a career best figure.
3rd pick: #5 (Tough But Nice) (6-1) - Another moving up in class, speed/stalker has won two in a row facing weaker. His latest score came at Los Alamitos Dec. 9, and he's worked very fast here twice since. Must be left in the mix.
4th pick: #4 (Marriedtothemusic) (3-1) - Old timer makes his West Coast debut after going 23-10-7-1 on the dirt, mostly on the NYRA circuit. Speedy 8yo has many races in his past that would win this, but he runs off an 80-day break and gives away a 'home court' advantage to the other three selections.