Historic Ohtani Home-Run Ball Sets Auction Record

Shohei Ohtani's 50th home-run ball has set an auction record, selling for $4.39 million. The ball marks a milestone in MLB history, making Ohtani the first to hit 50 home runs and steal 50 bases in one season. A legal dispute over ownership was recently resolved.

Shohei Ohtani's historic 50th home-run ball has fetched a record-breaking price at auction, netting an astounding $4.39 million. The sale marks the highest price paid for a sports ball at auction, surpassing previous records.

This significant milestone ball established Ohtani as the first Major League Baseball player to achieve both 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases within a single season. It seized the mantle from Mark McGwire’s 70th home-run ball, which once held the record by selling for $3 million in 1999.

Despite its sale, the ball was embroiled in legal controversy. An 18-year-old fan had previously filed a lawsuit to assert ownership. However, the auction proceeded after a legal agreement was reached between all involved parties, according to reports from U.S. media.

(With inputs from agencies.)