Horse Racing: Belmont Stakes field small but solid

Elmont, NY (Sports Network) - The 139th Belmont Stakes has a field of seven entered for the 1 1/2 miles. It may be a small group of three-year-olds, but it is a pretty solid contingent.
The only sophomore missing from the race that should be there is Street Sense. Taking his spot is leading filly Rags to Riches.
"Were going in because we think we have a chance to win," trainer Todd Pletcher said. "Weve got to hope that the five weeks between races, the pedigree that she has and the five pounds were getting maybe swings things our way."
Pletcher, who is the reigning champion trainer, is still seeking his first Triple Crown race victory. He has an excellent chance to win the Belmont with the filly. She has been rested since taking the Kentucky Oaks the day prior to the Run for the Roses.
"I said all along that I would not run her if the first three finishers from the first two legs (of the Triple Crown) ran," Pletcher said. "Shes been prepared for the last five weeks that she would run in the Belmont."
The only negative about Rags to Riches is the change of jockey. Her regular rider, Garrett Gomez, already committed to ride Hard Spun in the race. She gets Eclipse Award winner John Velazquez who has failed to win this race in 10 previous tries.
Despite the fact that this is her first time going against the boys, Rags to Riches is the 3-1 third choice in the morning line.