Top pick: #1 (NIGHT BADGER) (5-1) - Freshened up since Feb. 8th, gelding returns at a level and distance he's been successful at in the past. Speed/stalker has the rail, is working steadily, and has a solid shot at a square price.
2nd pick: #8 (Sir Macho) (7-2) - Grey gelding is shortening up in distance after finished a pace-pressing 3rd at this tag going a mile June 26. He's worked fast twice since, has back class, and is a strong win candidate.
3rd pick: #5 (Venetian Mask) (4-1) - NEW gelding is racing off almost a 7-week freshening. Working nicely, he's dropping in class, and is cutting back in distance. Fits with his best and must be left in the mix.
4th pick: #3 (Whiskey Wild) (5-2) - Lightly raced, he's been freshened up since March 1. He was sharp in three straight earlier this year at Santa Anita and has more speed than most. Very dangerous if ready off almost a 5-month layoff.