Smooth Roller scratched from Breeders' Cup Classic

LEXINGTON, Ky. (AP) Smooth Roller has been scratched from the Breeders' Cup Classic, leaving seven horses to challenge Triple Crown winner American Pharoah.

The 4-year-old gelding was scratched by the Keeneland stewards early Saturday on the advice of the Kentucky state veterinarian because of a tendon issue in Smooth Roller's left front leg.

Smooth Roller has won three of his four career races, all in California. He was listed at 15-1 on the morning line for the $5 million Classic. He is trained by Victor Garcia and was to be ridden by Tyler Baze.

The Classic lost mare Beholder on Thursday when she dropped out because of a fever, spoiling the highly anticipated match-up between her and American Pharoah, who is running for the last time.