California Chrome draws post 2, is 3-5 favorite for Stakes

Triple Crown contender California Chrome drew post 2 in a field of 11 horses yesterday morning at Belmont Park and was installed as the 3-5 favorite for Saturday's 146th Belmont Stakes.

New York Racing Association linemaker Eric Donovan made Wicked Strong the 6-1 second choice, with Tonalist next at odds of 8-1. Social Inclusion will miss the race because of behavior problems.

"Going 11/2 miles, it's a good post position," California Chrome's trainer, Art Sherman, said after the draw. "We'll be able to save some ground early and see what the speed horses are doing."

Sherman's son, assistant trainer Alan Sherman, pointed to Triple Crown history as a good omen.

"Secretariat had post No. 5 in the Derby, No. 3 in the Preakness and No. 2 in the Belmont," he said.