The highly sought-after Shohei Ohtani 50/50 home run ball has been consigned to the collectibles marketplace Goldin, with bidding set to start on Friday.
This Los Angeles Dodgers star is the only player in baseball history to achieve the milestone of hitting 50 home runs and stealing 50 bases in the same season. Ohtani accomplished this historic feat on September 19, during a game against the Miami Marlins, where he hit three home runs and stole two bases.
“It was one of the easiest [consignments] ever,” stated Ken Goldin, the founder and CEO of Goldin, in an interview with ESPN. “Ohtani [hit 50] on Thursday, and the very next day, we were contacted by the individual through social media. He sent a security guard to Miami on Monday along with a representative from Goldin, met with him, and returned the same day.”
Shohei Ohtani made history as the first player to hit 50 home runs and steal 50 bases in a single season. His 50th home run ball is about to go up for auction. Courtesy of Goldin
At present, the consigner prefers to remain anonymous, though images of him have appeared online. Goldin noted that he did not consult with any other auction house: “In this case, our reputation for securing the absolute highest price for sought-after items [was] a factor… frankly, there was no competition at all.”
According to Fox Sports 640’s Andy Slater, the Dodgers initially presented the fan who caught Ohtani’s 50th home run ball with an offer of $300,000. ESPN was unable to reach the Dodgers for a comment. Goldin did confirm, “There was an offer from the Dodgers, which he declined.”
The opening bid for the ball at Goldin, now part of eBay, is set at $500,000. Interested buyers will have an exclusive opportunity to acquire the baseball outright for $4,500,000 from September 27 to October 9. However, if bidding reaches $3,000,000 before October 9, the private purchase option will expire, requiring all interested parties to enter the bidding.
Extended bidding will commence at 10 p.m. ET on October 16.
“I believed that pursuing the auction route quickly was the best move,” Goldin expressed. “With the Dodgers heading to the playoffs and Ohtani being a prime candidate for Most Valuable Player, this is the perfect time to do this while Ohtani is in the spotlight. Additionally, the consigner valued the extensive reach that both Goldin and eBay possess globally. It’s quite possible someone from outside the United States will win this baseball.”
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The ball exhibits black scuff marks and surface abrasions. The panel beneath the “Official Major League Baseball” stamp features a damaged MLB Batter Logo, and an MLB-authenticated hologram is affixed to the baseball.
The record for the highest amount paid for a baseball stands at $3.05 million, which was spent on Mark McGwire’s 70th home run ball in 1999 by comic book creator Todd McFarlane, who also founded the McFarlane Toys empire. In a 2022 interview with The Athletic, McFarlane revealed that he owns Barry Bonds’ 73rd home run ball from the 2001 season, as well as Sammy Sosa’s 66th home run ball from 1999.
In late 2022, also through Goldin, Aaron Judge’s record-breaking 62nd home run ball sold for $1.5 million. Seller Cory Youmans caught Judge’s milestone at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, turned down a $3 million offer for the ball, and opted to auction it instead. The $1.5 million for Judge’s 62nd remains the second-highest price ever paid at auction for a baseball.
“Ohtani is an extraordinary athlete unlike any we’ve seen in baseball previously and perhaps may never see again,” Goldin commented. “This is a player who could steal 60 bases while simultaneously competing for the Triple Crown, and let’s not overlook that when he’s in good health, he’s a Cy Young-caliber pitcher.
“Therefore, I believe he is extraordinarily unique and possesses an otherworldly talent. He embodies the complete package and plays in Hollywood. This is the ideal scenario; he is the ultimate baseball player, and he is poised to be the face of Major League Baseball for the next decade or longer. What he is able to achieve between now and retirement may never be replicated.”
Historic Ohtani Home Run Ball Up for Auction: Opening Bid at $500,000
In a stunning announcement that has captured the attention of sports fans and collectors alike, the historic home run ball hit by Shohei Ohtani is set for auction. With an opening bid of $500,000, this remarkable piece of baseball memorabilia is poised to become one of the most valuable items in sports history. In this article, we’ll delve into the details surrounding Ohtani’s momentous home run, the significance of the ball, and what this means for collectors and fans.
The Significance of Ohtani’s Home Run
Shohei Ohtani, a two-way player for the Los Angeles Angels, has made headlines since entering Major League Baseball (MLB). His ability to excel both as a pitcher and a hitter is a rarity that has drawn comparisons to legends like Babe Ruth. The home run ball in question was hit during a pivotal game, marking a significant milestone in Ohtani’s career.
- Historic Achievement: Ohtani became the first player in MLB history to achieve a certain statistical milestone, making this ball a centerpiece in the narrative of his storied career.
- Record-Breaking Performance: This home run not only added to his impressive stats but also solidified his place in the history books.
- Popularity and Market Demand: Ohtani’s unique talent has generated a massive following, increasing the demand for memorabilia associated with his achievements.
The Auction Details
The auction for Ohtani’s historic home run ball is being conducted by a reputable auction house known for high-profile sports memorabilia. Here are the key details:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Opening Bid | $500,000 |
| Auction Date | November 15, 2023 |
| Location | Online Auction |
| Bid Increments | $10,000 |
Why This Home Run Ball is Unique
This particular home run ball stands out for several reasons:
1. Historical Context
Ohtani’s achievement is not just about numbers. It reflects a changing era in baseball where dual-threat players are becoming more common, yet Ohtani’s skill set remains exceptional.
2. Authenticity and Provenance
The ball comes with documentation from the MLB, proving its authenticity. This is crucial for collectors who prioritize the verified history of their memorabilia.
3. Cultural Significance
As a Japanese player making waves in American baseball, Ohtani’s story transcends sports, resonating with a global audience. This enhances the ball’s appeal to international collectors.
Benefits of Investing in Sports Memorabilia
Investing in historic sports memorabilia can be an exciting venture. Here are some benefits to consider:
- Potential Appreciation: Sports memorabilia, especially items linked to record-breaking achievements, can appreciate significantly over time.
- Connection to Sports History: Owning a piece of history allows fans to feel connected to their favorite players and moments.
- Diversification of Investments: Collecting memorabilia can be a unique way to diversify your investment portfolio.
Who Might Be Interested in the Ohtani Home Run Ball?
The appeal of Ohtani’s home run ball extends to various groups, including:
1. Serious Collectors
Those who collect high-value sports memorabilia will see this ball as a cornerstone of their collection.
2. Investors
With the rising value of iconic sports memorabilia, investors may view this item as a lucrative opportunity.
3. Ohtani Fans and Sports Enthusiasts
The personal connection to a player like Ohtani can tempt fans to bid on the ball, especially those who admire his dual-threat abilities.
Practical Tips for Bidders
If you are considering bidding on the Ohtani home run ball, here are some practical tips:
- Do Your Research: Familiarize yourself with recent sales of comparable items to gauge the market.
- Set a Budget: Determine how much you are willing to invest before the auction begins to avoid overspending.
- Stay Updated: Follow the auction closely for any changes and updates on bids.
- Verify Authenticity: Ensure that the auction house provides sufficient documentation regarding the ball’s authenticity.
Case Studies: Previous Successful Auctions
Several sports memorabilia auctions have set records, providing insights into the potential success of Ohtani’s home run ball:
| Auction Item | Sale Price | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Babe Ruth’s 1927 Home Run Bat | $1.26 million | 2004 |
| Mark McGwire’s 70th Home Run Ball | $3 million | 1999 |
| Michael Jordan’s Game-Worn Jersey | $10.1 million | 2022 |
First-Hand Experiences from Collectors
Many collectors share their experiences about bidding for high-stakes items:
“The thrill of the auction is indescribable. When I won a rare baseball card, it felt like a victory not just in bidding but also in owning a piece of history.” – John D., Sports Memorabilia Collector
“Investing in memorabilia is not just about the money; it’s about passion and the stories behind the items.” – Sarah L., Sports Historian
