Business magnate and chairperson of Berkshire Hathway, Warren Buffet, was once a mentor to former New York Yankees superstar Alex Rodriguez.
Rodriguez and Buffet met more than two decades ago when Buffet agreed to insure Rodriguez’s then-record $252 million contract with the Texas Rangers.
Buffet educated Rodriguez about the basics of investment using Hall of Fame Red Sox outfielder Ted Williams as a reference.
"He talks investing, just like Ted Williams talked about discipline at the plate," Rodriguez said.
Rodriguez often speaks about the valuable information and lessons Buffet has passed down to him. However, during an interview with Sports Illustrated in 2019, Buffet stated that the former New York Yankee legend didn’t need him or his help.
“Alex may give me some credit—but he doesn’t need me,” Buffett said. “He’s got a money mind. He just gets things, if they’re business- or money-related.”
Buffett said he felt Rodriguez would be successful in his business venture, even coining him the bull detector.
“Most athletes get gamed,” Buffett told Sports Illustrated. "That has not happened to Alex, and it wouldn’t happen to Alex. He’s got a bull---- detector that’s pretty d--- good,” Buffet told Sports Illustrated.
"What Warren Buffett taught Alex Rodriguez about investing" - Wayne Davidson, Twitter
Alex Rodriguez signed a mammoth contract with the Texas Rangers back in 2000
Alex Rodriguez sent the baseball fraternity into shock in December 2000 when he signed for the Texas Rangers on a whopping 10-year, $252 million deal.
"On this day 19 years ago, Alex Rodriguez signed his famous 10-year, $252 million deal with the Texas Rangers. A-Rod rewarded the Rangers with one MVP season plus 156 home runs, 569 hits and 359 RBIs in his three seasons with the team." - ESPN, Twitter
Easily the largest sporting contract at the time, the Rangers acquired Rodriguez in the hope of changing their fortunes on the pitch.
His time with the Rangers was relatively successful, with him winning three Silver Sluggers and two Gold Gloves, attending three All-Star games, and winning the 2003 Most Valuable Player award.