Kentucky Derby 2012 Field: Latest Odds and Picks for Saturday's Race

After a week's worth of hype and build, which included races at Churchill Downs with speculation about who benefited from their post position and who will have a difficult time overcoming their starting spot, the 2012 Kentucky Derby is finally here. 

Twenty of the best thoroughbreds in the world are going to line up to capture the most prestigious race in the sport. 

With such a loaded and talented field, this race is wide open for anyone to win. There are a few obvious favorites, but it would be foolish to sell the long-shots short. They are in this field for a reason and will keep things interesting up to post time. 

Where: Churchill Downs in Lexington, KY

When: Saturday, May 5 at 6:24 p.m. EST

Watch: NBC

POST POSITION	HORSE	ODDS*
No. 1	Daddy Long Legs	30-1
No. 2	Optimizer	45-1
No. 3	Take Charge Indy	12-1
No. 4	Union Rags	9-2
No. 5	Dullahan	8-1
No. 6	Bodemeister	4-1
No. 7	Rousing Sermon	50-1
No. 8	Creative Cause	12-1
No. 9	Trinniberg	40-1
No. 10	Daddy Nose Best	16-1
No. 11	Alpha	14-1
No. 12	Prospective	30-1
No. 13	Went The Day Well	25-1
No. 14	Hansen	10-1
No. 15	Gemologist	6-1
No. 16	El Padrino	22-1
No. 17	Done Talking	40-1
No. 18	Sabercat	35-1
No. 19	I'll Have Another	14-1
No. 20	Liasion	50-1

BOLD Indicates Odds On Favorite

*Odds courtesy of Horse Racing Nation

Prediction

Take Charge Indy wins the 138th Kentucky Derby

While he has not gotten the same publicity that Bodemeister and Union Rags have leading up to the event, Take Charge Indy comes into the Derby with a lot of momentum. 

Following a disappointing fifth place finish at the Breeders' Cup last November, Indy finished second at the ALWoc in January and came out on top at March's Florida Derby. 

If that isn't good enough for you, Indy will also be ridden by Calvin Borel, who has won three of the four Derby's. 

Darkhorse Candidate

Daddy Long Legs

Like Indy, Daddy Long Legs has had a rough go of things lately and his stock has dropped precipitously as the Derby has gotten closer. 

Sitting at 30-1 odds right now, Legs might be the best play in the field. He is as physically imposing as any of the top equestrians in this race and has shockingly long legs. He can take longer strides and shorten the track, which will give him a stamina edge at the end of the race. 

If you are looking for a long-shot to bet, Daddy Long Legs is almost too good to be true. 

Follow @adamwells1985