Belmont Stakes 2012 Post Positions: Horses Whose Post Position Gives Them Boost

With I'll Have Another being scratched from the 2012 Belmont Stakes on the eve of a possible history-making day, the field is evenly matched and the race is up for grabs.

So what if there's not a potential Triple Crown winner racing? The field is littered with top-talent horses who've been putting together some of the most thrilling races in the past year, and some of the best jockeys ever will be vying for yet another major victory.

The race will air on NBC at 4:30 p.m. ET. 

Post position is always a huge deal in horse racing, and this race is no different. Some horses will become afterthoughts just split seconds after the gates open, while others will use their slot to their advantage and run an inspiring race.

Let's take a look at the contenders who will enjoy a distinct advantage from their post position. 

Street Life

Having the No. 1 slot coming out of the gates is always an advantage, and that won't change with Street Life.

Street Life doesn't boast a strong history, with two wins in five starts. But a win at the Belmont Stakes would immediately supplant him as one of horse racing's biggest threats.

Being in the first slot will allow him to make this a long race and allow for a chance to make a late-race comeback. 

Dullahan

The obvious favorite to take home the Belmont race Saturday after I'll Have Another's scratching, Dullahan will use his post position to put himself at the top of the pack.

He's currently at the No. 5 spot beside Atigun and Ravelo's Boy, who have just 15-1 and 30-1 odds, respectively. Neither horse should surprise out of the gates and that will allow Dullahan to enjoy easy going early.

With insane 9-5 odds now, he's all but assumed to get out ahead of the pack. 

Union Rags

Union Rags is enjoying a generous 3-1 odds to win the Belmont Stakes, and with good reason: He's in a great position.

He'll take off at the No. 3 position aside Unstoppable U and Atigun, who both should pose no threat to victory. Union Rags has also enjoyed a great deal of recent success in finishing in the top three in five of his last six races.

He skipped the Preakness Stakes to rest, which puts him in a great position as well.

If he can get out ahead of the pack along with Dullahan, we could end up with an epic showdown similar to Bodemeister and I'll Have Another in the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes.