George Herman Ruth gets first at-bat

ARCADIA, Calif. – George Herman Ruth, a California-bred colt by Grazen, is the latest prospect owned by prominent breeder Nick Alexander to be named after a famous baseball player.

The colt, who starts in Friday’s seventh race at Santa Anita, has ability. He needs to be good to carry the formal name of the legendary Babe Ruth.

George Herman Ruth, who is out of the Afleet Alex mare Shesabronxbomber, is one of six first-time starters in a maiden special weight race at 5 1/2 furlongs on turf for California-breds. The colt may benefit from the experience of Friday’s race, according to trainer Phil D’Amato.

“He’s a big, strapping horse,” D’Amato said. “I think he’ll appreciate two turns. This is a good starting spot.

“He shows a lot of will and determination, but he’s not a rocket ship out of there. I think he’ll be more of a closer on Friday.”

The race drew nine runners, including the first-time starter World O Luck, a full brother to four-time winner Lucky Antares. Rookie Mistake, who drew the outside post, is winless in three starts, but was a game second after a wide trip at Del Mar on Dec. 1.