Shohei Ohtani’s 50th Home Run Ball Auction Nears End Amid Legal Disputes

The online auction for Shohei Ohtani’s historic 50th home run ball, a testament to his remarkable achievement, has just four days remaining, with the current highest bid at an impressive $1.8 million. However, the excitement around this auction has been overshadowed by an ongoing legal battle over the ball’s rightful ownership.

Legal Dispute Clouds Auction

Christian Zacek, who walked out of Miami’s LoanDepot Park with the prized baseball, is facing lawsuits from Max Matus and Joseph Davidov. Both claim they were the rightful owners of the ball before Zacek gained possession in the left-field stands during the game on Sept. 19, when Ohtani made history by becoming the first player to hit 50 home runs and steal 50 bases in a single season.

Initially identified as Chris Belanski in the lawsuits, Zacek’s name was updated in Matus’ revised legal filing. The lawsuit, obtained by The Associated Press, also removed Goldin Auctions as a defendant. Matus’ attorney, John Uustal, confirmed that the contract with Goldin Auctions was signed by Zacek, stating:

“The same person at the ballpark may have been listed as Belanski at the stadium. He has been difficult to identify and track down since a few days after the game. But regardless, the court now has control over the auction proceeds.”

Auction Proceeds Unaffected by Dispute

Despite the ongoing legal battle, all parties involved in the lawsuit have agreed to allow the auction to continue. Zacek’s legal team released a statement emphasizing that the legal dispute would not impact potential buyers:

“This agreement provides certainty to potential buyers that the historic 50/50 baseball will be sold free and clear of any legal claims against the future buyer. This agreement reflects all parties’ recognition of this monumental achievement. It will allow the full value of this historic baseball to be realized at the auction.”

The Fight for the Ball

Matus, who was celebrating his 18th birthday at the game, claims he was the first to take possession of the ball before Zacek intervened. Meanwhile, Davidov insists he “firmly and completely grabbed the ball in his left hand” while it was on the ground. Davidov is seeking more than $50,000 in damages for what he alleges was the improper removal of the ball from his possession.

Auction Ending Soon

The auction for Ohtani’s ball is set to close on Tuesday, with the current highest bid at $1.8 million. However, after fees are included, the final price could rise to nearly $2.2 million. As the legal battle continues, anticipation builds around whether the ball will fetch an even higher price in the final days.

Ohtani’s incredible milestone—becoming the first player to hit 50 home runs and steal 50 bases in a season—has made this ball a coveted piece of baseball history. The ongoing courtroom drama has only added to the intrigue surrounding its sale.