Espinoza Looks for Improved Chrome in 2015

Jockey Victor Espinoza thinks reigning Horse of the Year California Chrome (Lucky Pulpit) may be even better in 2015.

“I think he's stronger this year,” Espinoza said after piloting the flashy chestnut through a five-furlong work at Los Alamitos Sunday in 1:03.60. “The way he feels when I work him, he's bigger and more mature. From last year to this is a big difference. He's been working really strong. I believe he'll run as good as a 4-year-old as he did at three.” 

California Chrome is expected to make his 2015 debut in the Feb. 7 GII San Antonio Invitational at Santa Anita. Trainer Art Sherman had been hoping to see more in Sunday's work. 

“I thought he was going to work him faster,” Sherman admitted. “Victor told me that he goes so easy he was afraid he would go too fast if he clucked to him. I was looking for a minute and change; that would have helped me a lot more going into this race. I think it's a good work, but I would have liked a sharper workout for this race. He's doing so good though, so…his gallop-out was stronger than it has been. He galloped out [six furlongs] in 1:11.80. He was so strong pulling up. He'll be fresh and ready, I can tell you that.” 

Also working towards next Saturday's San Antonio, GI Clark H. winner Hoppertunity (Any Given Saturday) worked six furlongs Sunday at Santa Anita in 1:14.20. “He's running,” trainer Bob Baffert confirmed after the work. “That's good for him.”