Belmont Stakes 2012: Union Rags Will Ruin I'll Have Another's Triple Crown Run

I'll Have Another looks to be on his way to winning the first Triple Crown since 1978 after winning both the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes. With the Belmont Stakes fast approaching on June 9th, many people are already predicting I'll Have Another to take home the Triple Crown honors.

Bodemeister, I'll Have Another's biggest competition so far, is out. With that, it is hard to imagine I'll Have Another losing at Belmont, considering both races have seen I'll Have Another and Bodemeister finish one-two in the races.

But, bettors should not count out Union Rags to spoil I'll Have Another's Triple Crown run. Union Rags was a 9-2 favorite at the Kentucky Derby, but lost due to a poor start out of the gates. Looking back at Union Rags' performance, seventh place wasn't bad, considering it was in 18th at one point.

Since then, Union Rags has received a new jockey and will have the benefit from sitting out the Preakness. With that added rest, Union Rags could be the one who steals the Triple Crown from I'll Have Another.

This horse has the ability to win at Belmont. Its favorite status came back to haunt it at Churchill Downs, but the Belmont is a whole different race.

I'll Have Another has surged late to victory on both races so far. That may be a benefit at the Belmont, the longest Triple Crown race at 1.5 miles.

Imagine Union Rags getting out of the gate early in a thinner field. If it is able to get going early in the race, it could spell trouble for I'll Have Another's Triple Crown hopes.