Shohei Ohtani's 50th home run ball for the 2024 season is set to be a highly sought-after collector's item as it goes up for auction. This notable event will commence on September 27, with the bidding war starting at an impressive $500,000. For those unwilling to take their chances in the auction, the ball can also be purchased outright for a staggering $4.5 million until October 9.
A Milestone Achievement
Shohei Ohtani has solidified his place in Major League Baseball history by becoming the first player ever to notch 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases in a single season. This incredible feat took place during a game against the Miami Marlins, marking a pivotal moment in the sport. Ohtani's performance that day was nothing short of spectacular. He went 6 for 6, hitting three home runs and two doubles, while also stealing two bases and amassing 10 RBIs.
Record-Breaking Potential
For context, the current record price for a home run ball is $3.005 million, set by Mark McGwire's 70th home run ball from 1998. Given Ohtani's groundbreaking achievements and his widespread popularity, it's conceivable that his 50th home run ball could exceed this record. This ball was caught by a fortunate fan who later entrusted it to Goldin, a renowned auction house that specializes in high-value sports memorabilia.
Baseball's Crown Jewel
Ken Goldin, founder and CEO of Goldin, expressed his excitement about bringing this monumental piece of baseball history to collectors. "Ohtani is truly one-of-a-kind, and the 50-50 record may be his crowning achievement. We're honored to bring this iconic item to collectors. This is a piece of baseball history that fans and historians around the world will remember for decades to come," Goldin stated. His words resonate deeply with the baseball community, reflecting the significance of Ohtani's contribution to the game.
A Career of Highlights
Shohei Ohtani's journey to this historic moment has been marked by remarkable achievements. He began his professional career with the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters in Japan before making his way to the Major Leagues in the United States. Ohtani debuted with the Dodgers, and since then, his trajectory has been nothing short of extraordinary. His selection as an MLB All-Star for the 2024 season further underscores his exceptional talent and impact on the sport.
As the auction date approaches, anticipation within the sports memorabilia community continues to build. Fans and collectors alike are eager to see how high the bids will soar for this extraordinary artifact. Whether or not it sets a new record, Shohei Ohtani's 50th home run ball stands as a testament to his phenomenal abilities and the bright future of baseball history.