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Super Saver draws eighth post for Preakness

BALTIMORE - Kentucky Derby champion Super Saver drew the eighth post position for Saturday’s $1 million Preakness Stakes and was installed as the early 5-2 favorite.

Jockey Calvin Borel, who rode Super Saver to a 2-1/2-length victory in the Derby two weeks ago, will again be in the saddle for Saturday’s race at Pimlico Race Course.

“I really don’t think the post positions are hugely important in this race,” trainer Todd Pletcher told reporters after the draw Wednesday. “Eight was very good. I’m very happy with that.”

Lookin At Lucky, the Bob Baffert-trained Derby favorite who had a rough trip over the sloppy Churchill Downs track and finished sixth, will break from the seven hole and was made the second choice at 3-1.

The bay son of Smart Strike broke from the number one post in the 20-horse field and was never in contention. Baffert said he was relieved to avoid the same starting position.

“I was so worried. As soon as the one (post) got by, I thought, ‘Well, that’s good. At least I’m not stuck there,’” said Baffert.

“I’m just glad that the horse finally drew a decent post position. Now he’s going to have to run hard. The way he’s been training, I don’t see why he wouldn’t.”

Paddy O’Prado, who finished third in the Derby with Kent Desormeaux in the irons, will open from the 10 post and was made the third choice at 9-2.

The Preakness will have a 12-horse field, two short of the maximum.