Zedan Racing Stables' Barnes (c, 2, Into Mischief–All American Dream, by American Pharoah), a $3.2-million FTSAUG yearling, made trainer Bob Baffert's return to Churchill Downs a winning one Wednesday when just getting his nose in front of Innovator (Authentic) on the line. The 1-5 favorite was hustled out of the gate, but was taken in hand and settled off the pace when Luis Saez, aboard Innovator, proved intent on gaining the early lead. Bottled up behind horses nearing the lane, he found running room in upper stretch, but drifted out and raced greenly before kicking into gear late to just get his nose in front on the line. He completed the 5 1/2 furlongs in 1:02.97.
Baffert, making his return to Churchill after his three-year ban at the track was lifted in July, admitted he was happy to be back at the Louisville oval and even was looking ahead to a return next May.
“Hopefully, we will keep him healthy and hopefully we are here the first Saturday in May,” Baffert said from the winner's circle. Lifetime Record: 1-1-0-0. O-Zedan Racing Stables. B-Jeff Drown & Don Rachel LLC (Ky). T-Bob Baffert.
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