Gaming

Bob Baffert's emerging star has quickly established himself as a major player in the juvenile ranks, progressing from a sharp maiden victory to Grade 1 company with the kind of acceleration that suggests we're only scratching the surface of his potential.

The $500,000 Keeneland September yearling made short work of his 6 1/2-furlong debut at Del Mar, showing tactical speed before drawing off by 5 1/2 lengths. That effort served as a perfect springboard to the Del Mar Futurity (G1), where he validated the promise with a professional 1 3/4-length score at 7 furlongs. His two-turn debut in the American Pharoah (G1) resulted in a game second, staying on well through the stretch to suggest further improvement when stretching out.

His pedigree offers intrigue for classic aspirations. By leading sire Into Mischief, whose influence continues to grow through offspring like 2023 Kentucky Derby winner Mage, Gaming gets an interesting stamina boost from his dam's side. His second dam is by Pulpit, adding classic influences through the A.P. Indy line, while broodmare sire Johannesburg brings European class and versatility to the mix.

The colt's development pattern, coupled with Baffert's masterful handling of Derby prospects, suggests Gaming could be just the type to peak during the spring classics. His recent works at Santa Anita, including a sharp 5F in :59.60, indicate he's maintaining his form while building toward longer distances.

While the ultimate question of 10 furlongs remains to be answered, Gaming is showing all the right signs of a colt who could develop into a serious Kentucky Derby contender.

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• SCULLY: Gaming tops five in Los Alamitos Futurity
• SCULLY: Baffert sends Gaming, two others in pursuit of 15th Los Alamitos Futurity
• JOHNSON: Study Guide: 2024 Los Alamitos Futurity

Our Del Mar on-site correspondent @TheBrownAndrew caught up with Bob Baffert to chat about a few of his standout 2-year-old colts.

🏇 Getaway Car
🏇 Kalea Bay
🏇 Citizen Bull pic.twitter.com/gn5PrN97tN

— TwinSpires Racing 🏇 (@TwinSpires) August 17, 2024