Time could be running out for Justify

DEL MAR, Calif. – The best horse at Del Mar won’t run here, and time is running out for him to potentially run again.

Justify, the Triple Crown winner, has arrived at Del Mar, where he is walking daily. He was removed from training after filling developed in an ankle earlier this month at Santa Anita. He was brought out for local television media here in the barn area on Monday morning, and trainer Bob Baffert did a group interview and then a number of live hits for various morning shows, and deftly deflected any questions regarding specifics on Justify’s next start.

:: Del Mar All-Access: Choose from three plans, packages include PPs, strategies & more

Baffert said the Pacific Classic here is out. He said the Travers at Saratoga is out. And though Baffert did not say it, it is known that Justify will not race past the Breeders’ Cup Classic. Since the chances of him getting in a prep for the Classic are growing slimmer – and considering his value as an undefeated Triple Crown winner and the best offspring of the late successful sire Scat Daddy – it’s not hard to project where this story is likely headed.

“He’s so valuable as a stallion,” Baffert told media members. “We don’t want him to get hurt. We’ll know more in a couple of weeks. Right now, he’s day to day.”

Justify has not officially been sold for stud duty, but the worst-kept secret in the sport is that he’s ticketed to Coolmore America, where Baffert’s other Triple Crown winner, American Pharoah, resides.

If it turns out Justify will not race again, Del Mar officials hope to have him parade at the track before he leaves town, similar to events done at Churchill Downs and Santa Anita following his Triple Crown sweep.