I'll Have Another Scratched: Best Long Shots to Bank on at 2012 Belmont

With Kentucky Derby and Preakness champion I'll Have Another scratched from today's Belmont Stakes, several intriguing dark horses now have a better chance at winning the historic race.

Dullahan is the new favorite (9-5), followed by Union Rags (3-1), Paynter (7-2) and Street Life (8-1). But although these horses are generating all the pre-race buzz, there are several long shots who can earn you some serious coin this afternoon.

Consider placing your bets on one of these three underdogs.

All odds courtesy of the official Belmont Stakes website

Optimizer (15-1)

Optimizer certainly has some big race experience, as he ran in both the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness this year.

After finishing a disappointing 11th at the Derby, he improved to finish sixth at the Preakness. Although he may be a little fatigued, I think he can improve on those results once again.

He faces a tough task, as he'll have to come from the outside after starting in Post 10. Still, I think the seasoned horse will put together a solid performance.

I wouldn't bet on him winning, but a place or show isn't out of the question.

Atigun (15-1)

Atigun has already won three races in his career, with two of them coming this year. He also had a strong fifth place finish at the Arkansas Derby, which was won by Kentucky Derby and Preakness runner-up Bodemeister.

With his successful past, Atigun is a solid option to bet on today.

He's starting in Post 4, which has been home to four Belmont winners in the last quarter-century, and with his experience, you can never count him out. 

Five Sixteen (30-1)

Five Sixteen is my favorite long shot bet.

He has finished fourth or better in all of his races this year, including a victory in New York on March 14. He will also get a major boost from his starting position.

He will be coming out of Post 7, which has produced seven Belmont winners since 1979, including three of the last five champions.

At 30-1 odds, Five Sixteen is a great bet today.