Pubilius Syrus won Sunday's $78,345 Baffle Stakes for 3-year-olds on the hillside turf course by a length in his first start since a win in the Eddie Logan Stakes at a mile on turf on Dec. 30. 

Jockey Kent Desormeaux has ridden Pubilius Syrus in his five starts and says the colt has more potential this year, particularly at longer distances. Pubilius Syrus closed from third to win the Baffle Stakes at about 6 1-2 furlongs on turf.

"He was sitting right behind the leaders, just cruising with tons of speed to spare," Desormeaux said. "Quite honestly, I think I got to the lead too quick today."

Owned by David and Holly Wilson and trained by Vladimir Cerin, Pubilius Syrus will be pointed for the $200,000 Pasadena Stakes for 3-year-olds at a mile on turf on March 17. The Baffle Stakes will serve as a key prep, Desormeaux said.

"There wasn't a (mile) race for him for another (four) weeks and he was tearing down his stall," Desormeaux said. "He needed something to do."