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Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani, who made MLB history as the first player to hit 50 home runs and steal 50 bases in a single season, has set a new record off the field. His 50th home run ball sold at auction for $4.39 million, the highest price ever paid for a baseball or any sports ball.

The sale, conducted by Goldin Auctions, surpassed the previous record of $3 million, which was set in 1999 for Mark McGwire’s 70th home run ball from his record-breaking 1998 season. The ball was anticipated to be one of the most valuable pieces of baseball memorabilia ever, and the global bidding confirmed its significance.

“Shohei Ohtani made history with this baseball, and now, with the highest sale price for any ball ever sold, this legendary piece of sports memorabilia has made history again,” said Ken Goldin, founder of Goldin Auctions. “This auction drew bids from around the world, a testament to Ohtani’s impact on sports.”

While the sale concluded successfully, a legal dispute over the ball’s ownership is still ongoing in Florida. A temporary agreement allowed the auction to proceed, with the proceeds held in escrow as the court case continues.

Ohtani’s milestone 50th home run was part of a three-home run game against the Miami Marlins on September 19. He finished the 2024 season with 54 home runs and 59 stolen bases, cementing an already iconic season.