Here is your Masters dark horse: place your bets on K.J. Choi

If I were a betting man, I’d be all over K.J. Choi at 35-1 odds to win the Masters.

Here’s why:

K.J. has a 4th place finish at Augusta in recent years and over the last two years has been one of the most consistent players on tour and has a knack for playing well in big events.

He won this year’s Sony Open in Hawaii, but what I really like is that he’s finished in the Top 20 the last five events. You know he’s going to show up and be in contention here.

He hasn’t won a major yet, but you could say he’s the best player out there who hasn’t (with respect to Steve Stricker, Adam Scott, Sergio Garcia…). Last year, both his wins were high profile events with major-like fields: Jack’s Memorial and Tiger’s AT&T National.

Some players who I don’t feel have much better of a shot to win have far better odds: Vijay Singh (15:1), Ogilvy (18:1), Retief Goosen (18:1) Ernie Els (25:1), Adam Scott (25:1), Jim Furyk (30:1), Padraig Harrington (30:1) and Steve Stricker (30:1).

I wouldn’t touch Phil Mickelson at 10:1 with a ten foot pole. And I don’t know how everyone decided Retief Goosen is a major contender again, probably the same people who thought it would be a good idea to show the play pen that has become the Masters’ Par 3 spectacle.

While the PGA Punter seems to be on extended holiday, let me fill in for him. Here’s your betting guide to the 2008 Masters:

Put a safety bet on Woods, who depending on your bookie is about even money. Then put an equal amount on K.J. at 35-1. $25 wins you $875. That’s what I’m talkin’ about.

Heed my advice, and when you win, mail me a little $20 spot, will ya?