Paynter: Belmont Stakes Odds - Betting Favorite

Among the horses that would have been given a shot at ruining the Triple Crown dreams of I’ll Have Another, Paynter will take the gates on Saturday as a solid betting favorite that will garner plenty of respect and attention from the number 9 post position. Paynter immediately enters the race with considerable “street cred” as a 9/2 choice in Belmont Stakes odds as he is trained by Bob Baffert. In only 4-starts, Paynter has a record of 2-wins, a place and is coming off a win in an allowance race at Pimlico on May 12th. Mike Smith, one of the most respected jockeys in the game, only serves to further enhance Paynter’s credibility and appeal with fans and handicappers on race day.

Paynter ran in the Santa Anita Derby with I’ll Have Another and finished just 3 ¾ lengths behind at the wire. Paynter replaces stable mate Bodemeister for this race and will have fresher legs since this is his first race in Triple Crown grade 1 action for 2012. Baffert is a Hall of Fame trainer and a legend that is among the most respected in the game. Paynter is a speedy horse that will benefit from Baffert’s experience at Triple Crown racing preparation. Smith is an expert at the New York racing circuit tracks and an old pro at Belmont Stakes racing. The combination of Baffert and Smith along with the natural ability of Paynter, make for a valuable betting favorite in Belmont Stakes odds.

Paynter had opened as a 10/1 longshot but with I'll Have Another scratched and Dullahan / Union Rags the only horses to contend with, Vegas bookmakers currently have the 3-year-old Colt a 9/2 betting favorite. Paynter has long been considered to be a horse of tremendous “potential” which of course is one of the most damning words in the horse racing game. That being said Paynter is a horse that can completely change the dynamics and expectations of the field. With no pressure and small expectations, Paynter can run for fun and makes for a strong upset pick. Be sure to visit Bovada and receive a $100 free bet for wagering on Belmont Stakes odds.