With the apparent return of Roman Ruler to the list of prospects for the $250,000 Del Mar Futurity (gr. II) on closing day Sept. 8, the possible field could reach seven.Roman Ruler's 46-second flat half-mile workout on Sunday appears to set him up for the Futurity. Trainer Bob Baffert could still opt for a two-turn race such as the Kentucky Cup Juvenile (gr. III) at Turfway Park Sept. 18 or the Champagne Stakes (gr. I) at Belmont Park or the Lane's End Breeders' Futurity (gr. I) at Keeneland, both on Oct. 9.In any event, Baffert also has at least a couple more prospects for the seven-furlong Futurity. Compulsive, who worked seven furlongs Wednesday morning in 1:25 4/5, and Fusaichi Rock Star, who worked the same distance Wednesday in 1:26 1/5.
Baffert had a streak of seven consecutive Del Mar Futurity victories snapped last year when the Richard Mandella-trained Siphonizer prevailed. Also considered for the 2004 Futurity are the undefeated three-time stakes winner Chandtrue and maiden winners Proud Tower Too, Swiss Lad and Declan's Moon.