Preakness 2012: Bodemeister Deserves to Be Favorite in Baltimore

Bodemeister looked to have the Kentucky Derby in the bag before I'll Have Another's strong closing act, but the Preakness is where Bodemeister will shine.

There are no guarantees in sports—especially not in horse racing—but he has a great shot. Bodemeister's explosive run for two-thirds of the Derby showed his natural speed, but he faded at the end.

At the Preakness, that won't be an issue. 

Pimlico Race Course measures at 9.5 furlongs, which is 1.1875 miles—significantly shorter than the Derby.

The closers won't have as much time to catch Bodemeister at the Preakness if he gets off to the fast start we're accustomed to seeing.

For a horse like Bodemeister, that distance can make all the difference.

Bodemeister came into Churchill Downs off of an impressive win at the Arkansas Derby, where he took that race by 9.5 furlongs.

The course at Oaklawn Park measures 1.125 miles, which is more comparable to the distance at Pimlico.

That said, Bodemeister is set up for a performance similar to his run at the Arkansas Derby this Saturday at the Preakness.

Of all the horses confirmed to run at the Preakness Stakes, Bodemeister has shown the most consistency. He hasn't finished lower than second in any of his last three races.

These races have been of varying lengths and grades, but Bob Baffert's colt has proved to be among the best in all fields.

I believe this leg of the Triple Crown will be Bodemeister's showcase race.

The strong start at the Kentucky Derby combined with the natural speed this horse possesses, makes him the one to watch in Baltimore.

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