Pletcher making plans for new charge Following Sea

ELMONT, N.Y. – Following Sea, a 3-year-old by Runhappy colt recently transferred by Spendthrift Farm to Todd Pletcher from Bob Baffert, worked a half-mile in 48.78 seconds Friday morning over Belmont Park’s training track.

He proceeded to gallop out five furlongs in 1:01.53, six furlongs in 1:14.07 and seven furlongs in 1:27.49. He went in company with the 4-year-old Summer to Remember.

“He worked excellent,” Pletcher said. “Strong gallop-out, well in hand.”

:: Enhance your handicapping with DRF’s Belmont Park Clocker Report

Following Sea won a six-furlong maiden race by 5 3/4 lengths at Oaklawn on April 10. He was being pointed to the Chick Lang Stakes at Pimlico last Saturday, but Spendthrift opted not to run him, owing to the controversy surrounding Baffert following the positive medication test of Kentucky Derby winner Medina Spirit.

Pletcher said the Grade 1 Woody Stephens on June 5 is possible for Following Sea, depending on the make-up of the field.

“Lightly raced horse, but seems to have a lot of talent,” Pletcher said.