American Pharoah 'fresh' in Saturday morning jog

ARCADIA, Calif. – American Pharoah had his first exercise since arriving at Santa Anita on Thursday, jogging on the main track Saturday morning.

American Pharoah was eager for activity, according to regular exercise rider Jorge Alvarez.

“He was pretty fresh,” Alvarez said.

American Pharoah was flown Thursday from Churchill Downs to Santa Anita. He walked at Baffert’s barn Friday and will continue to exercise regularly in the coming days. On Saturday, Baffert said he is considering giving American Pharoah a workout June 27 or 28.

Baffert said there is a possibility American Pharoah will work between races June 27, a day the Triple Crown winner already is scheduled to be paraded at Santa Anita. No plans for a workout have been finalized. Baffert said he may opt to work American Pharoah during the morning next weekend, expressing concern the colt may be too eager if he works between races.

Baffert has not selected a race for American Pharoah’s next start. With the Triple Crown completed, there are many options, he said, including the $1 million Haskell Invitational at Monmouth Park on Aug. 2.

“Before, we were on Triple Crown time,” Baffert said. “Now, we’re on Pharoah time.”