Shohei Ohtani has once again made history, not just on the field but in the world of sports memorabilia. The baseball from his 50th home run of the 2024 season—marking the first-ever 50-50 season in Major League Baseball history—sold for a record-breaking $4.392 million at auction.
This sale, announced by Goldin Auctions on Wednesday, set a new all-time record for the highest price ever paid for any ball in sports history.
“Shohei Ohtani made history with this baseball, and now, with the highest sale price for any ball ever sold, this legendary piece of sports memorabilia has made history again,” said Ken Goldin, CEO of Goldin Auctions, in a statement celebrating the momentous sale.
Ohtani’s achievement, which combined 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases in a single season, came to a head on September 19, 2024, during a game in Miami. Facing Marlins pitcher Mike Baumann, Ohtani crushed a two-run home run to left field, sealing his place in the record books.
The game was one of Ohtani’s most memorable performances, as he went an incredible 6-for-6 at the plate, driving in 10 RBIs and hitting three home runs.
RELATED: Dodgers vs. Yankees World Series: Cheapest Ticket Prices Skyrocket
Before Ohtani’s ball broke the auction record, Mark McGwire’s 70th home run ball from the 1998 season had held the top spot, selling for $3.005 million.
However, Ohtani’s status as a two-way phenom, excelling both as a pitcher and hitter, added immeasurable value to the historic baseball, which now holds the title of the most expensive ball ever sold.
In an attempt to retrieve the ball for Ohtani, the Los Angeles Dodgers reportedly offered $300,000 to the fan who caught it, but the fan ultimately chose to put the ball up for auction instead. The decision paid off in a massive way, but the story behind the ball’s ownership remains complicated.
Multiple parties have come forward claiming to be the rightful owner of the historic home run ball. Separate lawsuits were filed by individuals asserting that they were the ones who caught the ball at the game.
Although the legal dispute over ownership has yet to be resolved, the parties involved agreed to allow the ball to go to auction, with the proceeds being held in escrow until a final decision is made.
This landmark sale not only highlights the continued dominance of Shohei Ohtani in the world of baseball but also underscores his global influence and iconic status in the sport.
As Ohtani continues to break barriers and set records, both on the field and in the auction house, his legacy as one of the greatest athletes of all time continues to grow.
For now, the $4.392 million baseball waits in limbo, its ownership yet to be determined. But one thing is certain: the ball represents a moment that will forever be etched in the annals of sports history—an extraordinary achievement by a player unlike any other.
