Best bet: PURE MISCHIEF (8)

Best value: TRANGO TOWER (4)

FIRST: Thirsted is speedy and drops; call in weak opener. Never Say Uncle could improve with switch to dirt. Winston D was an improved fourth in last; worth long look.

SECOND: Sammy C Note gets favorable cutback to sprint. Liberty Rising owns two seconds and a third from last three starts; another minor award? Pretrial Statement should be aided by today's shorter trip.

THIRD: Lady Rose wheels back in a hurry after winning by nearly six lengths on Nov. 28; takes another. Pinky Brier logged wire-to-wire scores in last two; very dangerous. St. Brigid's Cross was a game second behind Pinky Brier last out; must consider.

FOURTH: Trango Tower was a non-stressful third in last; forward move predicted. My Sherrona is s

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