Top pick: #3 (MASTER CIP) - He was heavily bet in both starts last spring but had major problems breaking in each and ran evenly while never threatening once in stride. He has a new trainer (Rudy Rodriguez 28% with new arrivals)and 4-year-old has been working very fast, first at Gulfstream, and more recently here for his return.
2nd pick: #1 (Papa Tom) - "Papa" was scratched out of a two-turn race recently to await this spot. Speed/stalker has the rail and comes off a career best when finishing second here at this level and trip on Dec. 30. Win candidate.
3rd pick: #6 (Suilleabhain) - Improving gelding moves up in class after finishing second here facing weaker on Jan. 11. He'll need to really step it up for any shot at the top prize, but can grab a minor share at a square price.
4th pick: #7 (Cash Your Ticket) - He hasn't raced since Sept. at Arlington and at that time he broke badly in both outings. He has a new trainer (Dale Romans) and colt has been working nicely for his return and his first on conventional dirt.