Top pick: #3 (DROWNING BEAR) - Tired last out while saving ground in a contest where he had position but could not offer a rally. He has a nice work since and is making his third start back after being away almost a year. Takes this from just off the lead.
2nd pick: #1 (Phobia) - Very speedy runner was claimed out of a win last out against 20K 2l open claimers. New trainer (Greg DiPrima) is very good first off the buy (21%) and this gelding has the best early speed and draws the rail.
3rd pick: #11 (Raffie's Deer) - Impressed last out in picking up his maiden win. Effort was his second for Steve Asmussen and second back off an eight-month layoff. Post is tough and he'll need to avoid a wide trip.
4th pick: #8 (Fire Marshall) - He's been at this level for nine starts at various distances with a pair of seconds and three third-place finishes. Stalker is not a strong win contender, but could hit the board at a square price.