Rory McIlroyAge: 29World ranking: 3Best Masters finish: Fourth (2015)Best 2019 finish: First (Players Championship)Enough time has passed since McIlroy’s infamous collapse at Augusta — eight years! His recent play here, though, has been stellar: Nine of his last 12 Masters rounds have been under par. Patrick ReedAge: 28World ranking: 18Best Masters finish: First (2018)Best 2019 finish: Tied for 13th (twice)The reason for picking against Reed is easy: He isn’t playing well. Justin ThomasAge: 25World ranking: 5Best Masters finish: Tied for 17th (2018)Best 2019 finish: Second (Genesis Open)Thomas’s talent, competitiveness, demeanor and résumé all suggest he should be an annual factor here. Charlie HoffmanAge: 42World ranking: 66Best Masters finish: Tied for ninth (2015)Best 2019 finish: Second (Valero Texas Open)Hoffman was a safe pick even before his runner-up finish at the PGA Tour’s most recent stop in San Antonio.

Source: Washington Post April 10, 2019 11:01 UTC