The biggest Belmont Stakes odds news of the weekend: Preakness winner Rachel Alexandra isn’t running in the race. The filly’s co-owner Jess Jackson explained that the horse “needs a vacation” after a busy season that included four graded stakes races (all of which she won). What does that mean for the rest of the field? Let’s look at a few horses to consider in Belmont Stakes betting.

MINE THAT BIRD

The Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes odds favorite from the start just got a whole lot more appealing. Not only does he not have to compete against Rachel Alexandra, he gets his jockey back. Calvin Borel rode Mine That Bird in the Kentucky Derby, then switched to Rachel Alexandra to win the Preakness. Now, he returns to Mine That Bird in his attempt to win the jockey’s Triple Crown. Given Mine That Bird’s style—running off the pace and making a late charge—the Belmont Stakes odds are perfectly suited to him, as the track is the longest of the three Triple Crown races.

CHARITABLE MAN

Could he be the top alternative pick for anyone lacking confidence in Mine That Bird? His win at Belmont Park, which he had a 3 ¾ length score, raised some eyebrows. He may be your horse if you want to swing for the fences in Belmont Stakes betting.

MINER‘S ESCAPE

Hall-of-Fame owner? Check. Hall-of-Fame trainer? Check. Owner/trainer tandem won the Belmont Stakes odds last year with their horse Da‘ Tara? Check. Yep, Miner’s Escape is in good hands with Nick Zito and Robert V. LaPenta. He won his last race, the Frederico Tesio Stakes, so he makes for an intriguing pick if you’re betting online, as he should offer better value than some of the big faves.