What’s Happening?

After the shock retirement of Parker Kligerman last week, Big Machine Racing had to fill a major hole. However, the rumor mill is pointing to Nick Sanchez as a leading candidate to take over in the No. 48 in 2025.

• Record executive Scott Borchetta’s NASCAR Xfinity Series team is entering its first free-agent search since bringing on its most recent full-time driver, Parker Kligerman, in 2023.
• The No. 48 has a compelling case to be one of the hottest open rides of the NASCAR Silly Season. The car is sponsored by Borchetta’s Big Machine Distillery, making an intriguing case for any free-agent driver to take over in 2025.
• Nick Sanchez is a member of NASCAR’s Drive for Diversity Program, racing for REV Racing in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series.

Is This a Realistic Move?

Nick Sanchez turned a major corner this season in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series. The Sophomore is a multi-race winner and has improved his average finish from last year by almost four spots.

Many fans wondered if this would catch the eye of any Xfinity Series teams, as Sanchez’s REV Racing has no direct affiliation with any major team. It appears that Sanchez may have found that opportunity with Big Machine Racing next year.

This signing would be a major win for the Chevrolet camp, as Sanchez looks like a future Cup Series regular. Furthermore, it would be a major step for BMR as Sanchez would be the team’s first developmental driver to race full-time for their team.

Big Machine Distillery’s sponsorship would be a major boost for the driver. However, this begs the question of whether Sanchez is the best option for BMR. With a fully sponsored car, the team has a world of opportunity both inside and outside of Chevrolet.

However, a major sticking point that hints that this rumor has traction is Sanchez’s history with BMR. In 2022, Sanchez started six races and finished in the top ten once for BMR.

If this rumor is true, it will open up a major ride in the Truck Series as well. However, that is if Sanchez moves up to BMR next season.

**Update** Nick Sanchez signs with Big Machine Racing

Shortly after this story was published, Sanchez and BMR officially announced the partnership. The team not only brings on Sanchez but outside sponsorship from Sanchez’s longtime partner Gainbridge.

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