Lava Man points towards Native Diver

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Great handicapping opportunity to play against sentimental favorite?


Lava Man works toward return

The comeback campaign is on for Lava Man, who worked six furlongs Wednesday at Hollywood and will target a Grade 3 race next month for his first start since July 20, 2008.

"He worked great; we're tentatively looking at the Native Diver for his comeback," trainer Doug O'Neill said Friday, referring to the Grade 3, 1 1/8-mile main-track race Dec. 12 at Hollywood Park.

O'Neill was in the process of finalizing jockey arrangements for Lava Man, who O'Neill said will have a new rider. Corey Nakatani was his regular rider from fall 2005 through sprint 2008; Tyler Baze rode Lava Man twice in summer 2008. Lava Man has won 17 races and more than $5.2 million from 46 starts.