Tapwrit sharp as he nears return

ELMONT, N.Y. – Kentucky Derby winner Always Dreaming disappointed in the Alysheba Stakes and his future is uncertain. Preakness winner Cloud Computing came out of his comeback race with a chip in an ankle that requires surgery.

So it may be up to Belmont Stakes winner Tapwrit to carry the mantle for the Triple Crown class of 2017.

On Friday, Tapwrit gave an indication he may be up to the challenge with a strong five-furlong workout in 59.60 seconds over the Belmont training track. Under Jose Ortiz, Tapwrit worked outside of Uncle Mojo, the two getting the last quarter in 23.80 seconds. Tapwrit galloped out six furlongs in 1:12.80.

It was Tapwrit’s first local work since returning to New York from South Florida. He breezed five times at Palm Beach Downs.

“Part track, part talent, doing well, good workmate,” trainer Todd Pletcher said in summing up the work. “It was the right kind of fast.”

Tapwrit has not run since finishing fourth in August’s Travers Stakes. He battled foot problems that sidelined him through the end of his 3-year-old season and was a little late to get started this year in his training. One early season objective for Tapwrit is the Grade 2 Suburban here July 7, with a likely prep race before then.

“That was his second five-eighths,” Pletcher said. “He’s come back really well; he looks great. Look forward to a good summer and fall with him.”

Also working for Pletcher on Friday was Unbridled Mo, the Grade 1 Apple Blossom winner, who is pointing to the Grade 1 Ogden Phipps at Belmont on June 9.

Unbridled Mo went a half-mile in 48.42 seconds in company with One Liner, the two getting their final quarter in 24.16 seconds. One Liner is possible for the Pimlico Special next Friday.

The Phipps is run at 1 1/16 miles around one turn. Though Unbridled Mo is 0 for 2 in races around one turn, Pletcher said, “I think she’s better now.”

“Hopefully, a mile and a sixteenth will be better than a mile,” he said.