Rock Hard Ten has first work since setback

It was only a three-furlong workout, but for the top-ranked handicap horse in California, it was a good first step back. Rock Hard Ten worked Sunday at Santa Anita in 38.20 seconds, breezing.

"Just a little something to stretch his legs," trainer Richard Mandella said.

Winner of the Santa Anita Handicap, Rock Hard Ten suffered a minor setback that Mandella said "he just got over himself." He said he expects Rock Hard Ten to be ready to run in the Grade 2 San Diego Handicap on July 24 at Del Mar.

The San Diego could also mark the return of Minister Eric, who came out of his Jan. 15 win in the Grade 2 San Fernando Stakes with flakes in both ankles; the flakes were removed with arthroscopic surgery. Mandella said Minister Eric has had one three-furlong workout, and his comeback timetable will be similar to that of Rock Hard Ten.