Top pick: #7 (TAPIZAR) - He was considered "Derby" material last winter by trainer Steve Asmussen but was sent to the sidelines for eight months after being injured in the "Lewis" stakes here a year ago. He's a bit of a "rogue" as he often is very difficult to rate and believe he's best when going to the front. An easy winner here last out in the G2 San Fernando, and that was his best ever. Very much the horse to beat.
2nd pick: #2 (Prayer For Relief) - One of a pair entered by the Baffert barn and the two colts will race uncoupled. He won three Derby's last year, West Virginia, Iowa, and the "Super" one at Louisiana Downs and last out finished third here to tapizar. Son of "Jump Start" has a fast work on Jan. 28 and should be in this all the way.
3rd pick: #1 (Jaycito) - The second of the Baffert duo has had his career broken up by several layoffs, but has talent and is working fast for his first start since mid-August at Del Mar. Has the rail and expect him to be competitive at a nice price.