Belmont Stakes 2021: Aiming to be exacta-ly right

There are only eight horses in the Belmont Stakes. Essential Quality is the favorite. Two of his victories came as a 2-year-old in Grade 1 races. Known Agenda and Rock Your World have also had Grade1 success. Rock your world is bred for the 12 furlongs.

Known Agenda drew a better post position than in the Derby. Todd Pletcher and Irad Ortiz Jr. will be the main contenders. Essential Quality is poised for a big effort after his Derby disappointment. Tapit has sired three of the last six Belmont winners at 1½ miles.

There are few horses to choose from at Belmont Park. Hot Rod Charlie finished third in the Louisiana Derby. Known Agenda is 6-1 on the morning line. Essential Quality is 2- 1. Rombauer has to overcome the problem that all deep closers have at the short, 366-yard homestretch.

$100 wagering strategy. $50 exacta box: Known Agenda-Essential Quality. Belmont Stakes 2021.

Belmont Stakes 2021: Known Agenda, Essential Quality, Hot Rod Charlie, Rombauer.