Shohei Ohtani's Historic 50th Home Run Ball Up for Auction at $4.5 Million

The ball hit by Shohei Ohtani for his historic 50th home run of the MLB season is now up for auction, with a starting bid set at $500,000 (£375,000) and a private purchase option of $4.5 million (£3.4 million). This sale could set a new record for a baseball, surpassing the current record of $3.05 million (£1.9 million) for Mark McGwire’s 70th home run ball from 1998.

Ohtani, the Los Angeles Dodgers superstar, made history last Thursday by becoming the first player to achieve 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases in a single season. He accomplished this milestone during a remarkable game where he recorded six hits in six at-bats, driving in 10 runs, including three home runs, while also stealing two bases—bringing his season total to 51 stolen bases alongside 53 home runs.

The fan who caught Ohtani’s 50th home run ball reportedly declined a $300,000 (£225,000) offer from the Dodgers. Instead, he contacted Goldin auction house the following day, choosing to remain anonymous throughout the process. Goldin’s founder, Ken Goldin, noted the swift nature of the consignment, stating, “This was one of the easiest [consignments] ever.”

With five games remaining in the regular season and the Dodgers already secured a playoff spot, Ohtani’s remarkable achievements continue to capture the attention of baseball fans and collectors alike.