Ohtani's 50th home run ball sells for record $4.39 million at auction

Shohei Ohtani's 50th home run ball has sold for a record $4.392 million at auction, surpassing the previous record of $3 million set for Mark McGwire's 70th home run ball in 1999. This sale marks Ohtani as the only player to hit over 50 home runs and steal bases in a single season. The auction proceeded despite ongoing litigation over the ball's ownership, with an agreement ensuring the winning bidder will receive clear title. The auction house, Goldin Auctions, has not disclosed the buyer's identity. The funds from the sale will be held until the ownership disputes are resolved. Ohtani and the Dodgers are set to play the New York Yankees in Game 1 of the World Series on Friday.