Kentucky Derby 2012: Former Favorites Who Were Hurt by Post Draw

The post position draw on Wednesday was considered to be one of the most important draws at the Kentucky Derby in years.

The full 20-horse field, combined with the level of talent across the board, figured to make it difficult to win on the inside positions this year.

Several former favorites were given poor post positions on Wednesday. Here's a look at each of them, complete with their current odds.

3. Union Rags (9-2)

Union Rags was seen as a premier contender headed into the post draw, and he still is, but I don't like his No. 4 post at all.

The No. 4 post isn't horrible in itself, but the competition surrounding Union Rags worries me. The three-year-old colt will be sandwiched between Take Charge Indy (post No. 3) and Dullahan (post No. 5), who are both considered contenders this year.

Union Rags is a good enough horse to potentially rise above his predicament, but it will be very difficult and I don't like his chances in the end.

2. Dullahan (8-1)

It does surprise me that Union Rags and Dullahan have such good odds after the post draw. While Union Rags while be between Dullahan and Take Charge Indy, Dullahan will be sandwiched between Union Rags and Bodemeister, the top two favorites.

Again, the No. 5 post position isn't bad in itself, but Dullahan couldn't have had a worse draw in terms of who is racing beside him. Union Rags and Bodemeister have the potential to bully him.

1. Take Charge Indy (15-1)

It doesn't surprise me that Take Charge Indy has such bad odds after the post draw. The No. 3 position is a bad place to be in, and he finds himself alongside Union Rags.

After his win at the Florida Derby in late March, Take Charge Indy had the potential to be a sleeper candidate at this year's Kentucky Derby. He raced well at Gulfstream Park and was well-rested.

But now, I would be shocked if Take Charge Indy was even in contention down the stretch on Saturday.