Shohei Ohtani's 50th Home Run Ball Up for Auction

Shohei Ohtani recently made MLB history by becoming the first player to achieve 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases in a single season, reaching this milestone during a game against the Miami Marlins on September 19. The baseball from his 50th home run is now up for auction, with an opening bid of $500,000 and a potential outright purchase price of $4.5 million. The auction, managed by Goldin Auctions, will run until October 9, and if bidding exceeds $3 million, the private purchase option will be eliminated. The fan who caught the ball initially rejected a $300,000 offer from the Dodgers, aiming for a significantly higher return through the auction. Additionally, the demand for Ohtani memorabilia has surged, exemplified by a recent sale of one of his trading cards for $336,000, reflecting his rising status in the collectibles market. This unprecedented milestone and the ensuing auction have captivated baseball fans and collectors alike.