From the DRF article I cited earlier about the possible 2-year ban --
The hearing officer, O. Peter Sherwood, a retired New York Supreme Court justice, recommended the two-year ban after accepting arguments from NYRA’s attorneys that the “evidence establishes that Baffert has engaged in conduct that is detrimental to the best interests of Thoroughbred racing in that he has harmed the reputation and integrity of the sport, as well as the public’s perception of the sport’s legitimacy.”
According to Sherwood’s report, “NYRA also proved that each time Baffert was charged with a violation he provided an implausible excuse, and blamed others for conduct that he, as the trainer, was responsible for as a matter of law.”
As for punishments by other sports you mention --
Astros were fined $5 million and forfeited first and second round picks in 2020 and 2021. Severe enough? Not really -- but I am biased. (Still significant).
Patriots "Spygate" scandal resulted in a $500,000 fine for Belicheck, $250,000 fine for Astros and loss of first round selection in 2008 draft. (Pretty significant).
As you say, UNC got off easy.
Maybe, a better comparison of Baffert's situation is Marge Schott, former owner of the Reds. Her racist comments led to a 2 year ban from MLB.
