Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #7 (NIGHTLY NEWS) (7-5) - The probable favorite, he began his career on the much tougher So. California circuit and was in the barn of 'Hall of Famer' Bob Baffert. Home bred was competitive in his first pair before regressing a bit last out (Oct 23). Gelding runs off a private trainer change to Dan McFarland and this 3yo should beat these if he doesn't scratch.
2nd pick: #5 (Cable Jett) (4-1) - On the sidelines since Sept 12, colt was never involved that day racing a $75K sprint stakes at Canterbury Downs. In the barn of leading trainer Bob Diodoro, 3-year-old by 'Flower Alley' is working steadily and is stretching out in distance.
3rd pick: #4 (Boss Carl) (9-2) - He checked in third of eight, beaten one length here Dec 30. A career best, it came at this level and was his first ever at the distance. He's worked since and is a good smallish barn (Bob Lawrence).
4th pick: #2 (Rifle Talk) (5-1) - Well bred 3-year-old exits the same Dec 30 contest as 'Boss Carl.' Gelding by 'Majestic Warrior' raced evenly while finishing three-lengths behind that rival. He's capable of getting a share of this.