Kentucky Derby 2012: Pegging Down Favorites After Post Draw

The all-important post draw on Wednesday determined how the 2012 Kentucky Derby field would be spread out on Saturday, and it had its share of surprises.

Some horses sprung into contention, while some of the previous favorites faded back. It's going to be an exciting race as usual, but the post draw on Wednesday shook things up a little. This could be a race where numerous horses are neck-and-neck down the stretch.

Here's a look at my top-three favorites going into the historic race on Saturday at Churchill Downs, complete with official odds. One of my contenders may surprise you.

3. Creative Cause (12-1)

Creative Cause was granted the No. 8 post position on Wednesday. Not only is it a solid position, but Creative Cause is one of the most consistent horses in the field.

The three-year-old has never been out of the money in eight career starts. He also beat out Bodemeister in the San Felipe Stakes at Santa Anita in March and was barely edged by I'll Have Another in the Santa Anita Derby three weeks ago.

I wouldn't be surprised if Creative Cause won it all.

2. Gemologist (6-1)

A prime contender heading into the post draw on Wednesday, Gemologist was blessed with the No. 15 position, which his camp has to feel good about.

He's unbeaten in five career starts and his victory in the Wood Memorial Stakes three weeks ago was particularly impressive.

In the win, Gemologist broke free for the lead down the stretch and held out the surging Alpha at the end. There is a lot to like about this horse. 

1. Bodemeister (4-1) 

It's hard for me to go against a Bob Baffert horse in a relatively good position. 

Bodemeister was given the No. 6 post position on Wednesday, and that's not actually too bad.

In posts three through five, you have Take Charge Indy, previous favorite Union Rags and Dullahan respectively.

There's the potential for all three horses to hurt themselves battling it out in the inside, and for Bodemeister to separate himself down the stretch.

I like Bodemeister's chances, as he's coming off an astounding 9 1/2-length victory at the Arkansas Derby two weeks ago.