Prospect of American Pharoah running boosts Saratoga season (The Associated Press)

The possibility of Triple Crown winner American Pharoah running in the Travers Stakes has raised the level of excitement heading into Friday’s opening of the 147th summer of thoroughbred racing at historic Saratoga Race Course. Owner Ahmed Zayat and Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert have not ruled American Pharoah out of the Grade 1, $1.25 million event, Saratoga’s summer centerpiece and one of the oldest races for 3-year-olds. The 146th running of the Travers will be Aug. 29.