Selections are listed in order of preference. The Prof's odds-line follow the name of each horse
1-Big Brown 1-1 - Good looking colt is undefeated in all 5 career starts, winning by an average of 8 lengths. Made easy work of his competition in both the Derby & Preakness. He'll become the first Triple Crown winner since 1978 if anywhere near his best. His recurring hoof injury flared up after the Preakness, causing him to lose some training time. His trainer, "Tricky Dick" Dutrow is once again extremely confident despite his foot problem. Be aware that the last 10 winners of both the Derby & Preakness have failed in the Belmont, the most recent being Smarty Jones. Regardless, he may be the most talented 3 year old since Secretariat in 1973. He's the Prof's stand-out choice but remember the old adage: "No man alive wins money betting at 2 to 5!"
4-Denis of Cork 4-1 - Was undefeated in his first 3 starts but regressed to finish a disappointing 5th as the even money favorite in the Illinois Derby-G2 three races back. Rallied from last (20th) to finish 3rd in Derby 5 weeks ago. Appears well-rested and is poised to move forward in today's race. May be the beneficiary if Big Brown & Casino Drive falter after setting too fast a pace. Am looking for a good performace at his 12-1 morning line odds.
5-Casino Drive 6-1 - Many handicappers feel that this lightly raced colt from Japan has the best chance of upsetting the overwhelming favorite. He crushed a mediocre field of 9 to win the Peter Pan-G2 on this track 4 weeks ago while earning a competitive speed & sheet fig. He is a half-brother to the latest two Belmont winners; Rags To Riches & Jazil which ensures that he's capable of handling the marathon distance. The fact that this is only his third career start is a cause for concern. In addition, his Japanese trainer has trained him VERY lightly since his last race which raises eyebrows. He appeared uncomfortable while galloping strongly on a sloppy track a few days ago. Nevertheless, he can't be taken lightly considering his pedigree and recent convincing win. Contender at 7-2 morning line odds.
7-Tale of Ekati 12-1 - "Bounced" in the Derby after an upset win in the Wood Memorial-G1 in previous race. Earned a competitive speed & sheet fig in the Wood. Has rested since and may be ready to move forward again. Possible strong factor in the stretch at his 20-1 morning line odds.
Wagering Strategy-
$1 Trifecta wheel: 1 / 4-5 / 3-4-5-7-8 = $8
$1 Superfecta wheel: 1 / 4 / 5-7-8 / 3-5-7-8-9-10 = $15
$1 Trifecta wheel (contrarian wager): 4-7 / 1-4-7 / 1-3-4-5-7-8-9-10 = $24
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