HorseRacing
The Unlikely Bond: Baseball Champions and Horse Racing Enthusiasts
2025-02-13
When the Boston Red Sox signed Walker Buehler and Alex Bregman this offseason, they not only bolstered their roster with championship-caliber players but also introduced a unique blend of baseball prowess and horse racing passion into the locker room. The connection between these two athletes extends far beyond the diamond, delving deep into the world of thoroughbred ownership and competitive betting.
Where Passion Meets Performance: A Winning Combination for the Ages
A Legacy of Racing Roots
The Bregman family has long been intertwined with the allure of the racetrack. From Alex's father, Sam, to his grandfather, Stan, and even his great-grandfather, Bo, this legacy of horsemanship has been passed down through generations. Alex’s wife, Reagan, further solidifies this tradition, having grown up riding horses and developing a profound love for the sport. In 2022, the Bregmans officially launched Bregman Family Racing, which quickly became a cornerstone of their lives. This dedication to horse racing is not just a hobby; it's a way of life that has now seamlessly integrated into Alex's professional baseball career.Alex's transition to the Red Sox came with a hefty three-year, $120 million contract in February. Known for his stellar performances with the Houston Astros, including two World Series victories and two All-Star appearances, Bregman brings an impressive resume to Boston. His passion for horse racing adds another layer of excitement to his new team, potentially influencing his teammates and enriching the clubhouse culture.Born and Raised in the Heart of Horse Country
Walker Buehler, a native of Lexington, Kentucky, grew up immersed in the rich heritage of horse racing. His early years were spent reading publications like BloodHorse and Thoroughbred Times, learning the intricacies of handicapping from Andy Beyer’s renowned book. Buehler's first venture into racehorse ownership came through MyRacehorse, a micro-share partnership recommended by Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert. His initial investment paid off handsomely when the horse named Authentic clinched the Kentucky Derby and later triumphed at the 2020 Breeders’ Cup Classic. Buehler and his wife, McKenzie, were there to witness history unfold.Buehler's baseball journey began with the Los Angeles Dodgers, where he established himself as an ace pitcher, earning multiple All-Star nods and two World Series rings. However, his career faced a setback due to Tommy John surgery in 2022. Undeterred, Buehler signed a one-year, $21 million deal with the Red Sox in December, bringing both his pitching skills and his passion for horse racing to Fenway Park.March of Time: A Promising Future
One of the most exciting developments in the Buehler-Bregman partnership is their co-ownership of March of Time, a promising sprinter co-owned with Jill Baffert, wife of legendary trainer Bob Baffert. Despite being ineligible for the 2025 Kentucky Derby, March of Time has already shown remarkable potential. He secured a commanding victory in his second career start at Santa Anita Park in late December 2024, followed by a commendable third-place finish in an allowance race in January.March of Time, sired by the 2018 Triple Crown winner Justify, exemplifies the intersection of elite breeding and expert training. Under Bob Baffert’s guidance, the bay colt continues to develop, offering glimpses of what could be a brilliant racing career. For Buehler and Bregman, owning a part of this rising star is more than just an investment; it’s a shared dream that bridges their worlds of baseball and horse racing.Derby Fever Spreads Through Fenway
The synergy between Buehler and Bregman is palpable, creating an environment where horse racing fever can spread throughout the Red Sox locker room. Their combined expertise in sports and racing offers a fresh dynamic, potentially inspiring other players to explore the thrilling world of thoroughbred ownership. The fusion of baseball and horse racing creates a unique narrative, one that showcases the diverse interests and passions within the team.As the Red Sox prepare for the upcoming season, the influence of Buehler and Bregman extends beyond the field. Their commitment to excellence, both on and off the diamond, sets a powerful example for their teammates. The future looks bright for the Red Sox, not just in terms of baseball achievements but also in fostering a community that celebrates the thrill of competition in all its forms.