Arrogate rock-solid in return to work tab

ARCADIA, Calif. – It was only three furlongs Tuesday morning at Santa Anita, but the workout by Arrogate was significant because it marked a first step toward a summer comeback at Del Mar.

Arrogate and exercise rider Dana Barnes cruised an easy three furlongs at 8 a.m., the first workout by the world’s top-ranked horse since he returned from Dubai in early April.

“He just went 36, out in 49, just did it easy,” trainer Bob Baffert said. “She [Dana Barnes] did a great job; he was pretty fired up at the barn. She had her hands full.”

By the time Arrogate reached the racetrack, he was relatively calm while photographers, horsemen, and fans snapped photos of North America’s richest horse. Arrogate has won seven races and more than $17 million from eight career starts including four Grade 1s – the Dubai World Cup, Pegasus World Cup, Breeders’ Cup Classic and Travers Stakes.

Arrogate was given an official work time of 36.20. Head clocker Dane Nelson said Arrogate galloped out in 49.

As Arrogate jogged back to the barn, Baffert shouted to Barnes, “You did a good job, perfect … just 12s.”

Baffert is pointing Arrogate for a return in one of two races this summer at Del Mar. He could start in the Grade 2 San Diego Handicap on July 22, or train into the Grade 1 Pacific Classic on Aug. 19.

Arrogate lost significant weight when he shipped to Dubai for his World Cup victory on March 25. Looking at him Tuesday, one would never tell. “He got his weight back,” Baffert said.