Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #6 (SCALPER) (7-2) - He's one of two entered by Bob Baffert and is making his second start. Heavily backed when debuting here Dec. 26, he had a wide trip while encountering some traffic issues. Beaten 4 lengths, he's working very fast since and gets a slight edge.
2nd pick: #7 (Dessman) (9-5) - The second of the Baffert pair, this son of 'Union Rags' sold for $750,000 last March as a 2yo in training. He's been working fast locally and Baffert has won with an amazing 32-of-61 (52%) first-time-starters since the beginning of 2018.
3rd pick: #2 (Jumpin Thru Hoops) (6-1) - He had a tough trip racing between horses down the stretch after setting a quick pace debuting here Dec. 26. Colt was about 4 lengths behind 'Scalper' at the finish in what was a fine first attempt. He's a solid alternative to the Baffert pair and at a square price.
4th pick: #5 (Taos) (12-1) - Regally bred runner runs today as a NEW gelding. The 3yo by 'Tapit' is from the Godolphin operation and has a trio of fast works on view for his first since Nov. 3. He's capable of getting a share at a big price.