Ohtani’s 50/50 Ball Shatters Record for Most Expensive in Sports History
A Historic Home Run Ball
Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani seems to break a record every other day, but this latest feat transcends baseball. On September 19, Ohtani became the first player in the sport’s history to hit 50 home runs and steal 50 bases in a season.
A Controversy and a Winning Bid
While there was initially controversy surrounding who caught the historic ball and who had the rights to it, it eventually ended up in the possession of sports auction house Goldin Auctions. The ball was later authenticated and authenticated again, ensuring its legitimacy.
A Dungeon Frenzy
The frenzy that ensued in pursuit of the ball was reminiscent of the day of Barry Bonds’ milestone home runs. As the ball clanged off the facade above the sports lounge and fell into the dining area, fans converged with a fervor to get their hands on the ball, flipping over tables and chairs as the ball tried its best to avoid their grasp.
A Record-Breaking Auction
The ball was later sold at auction, with the winning bid reaching an eye-watering $3.6 million. With the buyer’s premium, the final price was $4.39 million, shattering the record for the most expensive ball in sports history. The bidding had started at $500,000, with the winning bidder remaining anonymous.
A Historic Feat
According to ESPN, the $4.39 million paid for Ohtani’s ball shatters not only the record paid for a baseball but also “any sports ball, for that matter.” The previous record for the most valuable baseball was Mark McGwire’s record-breaking 70th home run ball, which cost comic book creator and avid record-breaking baseball collector Todd McFarlane $3 million in 1998.
A Season to Remember
This season marks the first time Ohtani has made the playoffs in his career as the Dodgers face the New York Yankees for the 12th time in history in the World Series.
A Finder’s Guide to the 2024 World Series
First pitch for Game 1 is scheduled for 8:08 p.m. ET Friday, with Dodgers ace Jack Flaherty facing off against the Yankees’ Gerrit Cole.
Conclusion
Ohtani’s 50/50 ball has shattered the record for the most expensive ball in sports history, solidifying its place in the annals of baseball history. As the Dodgers look to make a run in the World Series, fans and collectors alike will be eagerly awaiting what’s to come.
FAQs
* Who was the winning bidder for the 50/50 ball?
The winning bidder remains anonymous.
* What was the starting bid for the 50/50 ball?
The starting bid was $500,000.
* How much was the final sale price for the 50/50 ball?
The final sale price was $4.39 million, with the buyer’s premium included.
* What was the previous record for the most valuable baseball?
The previous record was Mark McGwire’s record-breaking 70th home run ball, which cost $3 million in 1998.
