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Kentucky Derby winner Always Dreaming has begun preparations for the next phase of his career with his first workout since finishing eighth in the Preakness Stakes on May 20.

The Todd Pletcher-trained colt covered four furlongs in 49.96 seconds over the Belmont Park training track on July 1.

Always Dreaming appeared more settled in his work than in previous gallops and went smoothly through his paces under no urging from exercise rider Hector Ramos.

Pletcher had indicated that the G1 Haskell Invitational Stakes at Monmouth Park on July 30 or the G2 Jim Dandy Stakes at Saratoga on July 29 were both under consideration.

After Saturday’s work co-owner Anthony Bonomo said they are leaning toward a start in the Jim Dandy where hje wil meet Preakness Stakes winner Cloud Computing.

"I think he's doing great after getting some time off," said Bonomo.

"We're thrilled that his first work back was a good one and hopefully he'll continue to work well and be ready for the Saratoga meet.

"We just hope he continues to make progress. Sometimes a little time can be good."

Pletcher added that Always Dreaming is scheduled for three more breezes before the Jim Dandy.

Preakness Stakes winner Cloud Computing continued his preparations toward a Jim Dandy start with a five furlong breeze in 1:01.84 over the Belmont main track on Saturday.

It was his third workout since he beat 2YO champion Classic Empire by a head in the second leg of the Triple Crown.

"He looked very good," said trainer Chad Brown. "He galloped out well and is still on target for the Jim Dandy. I love where we're at with him."

The race for Eclipse Award honours in the 3YO male division is wide open after three different horses ended up taking each leg of the Triple Crown.

Always Dreaming is in a good place as he is still the only 3YO male who has earned multiple G1 wins this year as he captured the G1 Florida Derby by five lengths en route to the Kentucky Derby.