In what can only be described as the most Bumgarnerian twist, it turns out that Madison Bumgarner is a secret rodeo star.
A major tip of the metaphorical ten-gallon hat to The Athletic’s Andrew Baggarly and Zach Buchanan for uncovering this gem.
A Dec. 3 post on Rancho Rio’s Facebook page blew the cover of one Mason Saunders, aka Bumgarner.
“The 2014 World Series MVP was photographed with roping professional Jaxson Tucker, and both ultimately ended up walking away with a total of $26,5550 in prize money.”
“Oh boy,” Bumgarner exclaimed when presented with the photo. “This is ruining my alias.”
Oh boy, indeed.
The picture was taken about two weeks before Bumgarner inked a five-year, $85-million pact with the Diamondbacks. Club general manager Mike Hazen told azcentral.com that he doesn’t believe MadBum has competed since joining his team, but…
“I don’t have a comment on what guys would have done prior to being an Arizona Diamondback.”
Bumgarner’s old manager, Bruce Bochy, had the perfect response to the revelation of Mr. Saunders’ off-field pursuits:
While the sanctimonious will upbraid Bumgarner for his (admittedly) reckless behavior, it's so much more fun to focus on just how magical the story of Mr. Saunders is.
The San Jose Giants get it.
