Baseball enthusiasts and collectors alike were in for a treat when Freddie Freeman's walk-off grand slam ball from Game 1 of the 2024 World Series hit the auction block. This remarkable artifact holds a special place in baseball history, selling for an astonishing $1.56 million, including the buyer's premium. It stands as the third-most expensive baseball ever sold, trailing only Shohei Ohtani's $4.392 million 50/50 home run ball and Mark McGwire's $3 million 70th home run ball. Freeman's homer even surpassed Aaron Judge's 62nd home run ball, which fetched $1.5 million in 2022. The Dodgers' victory in the series in just five games, with Freeman named MVP for his second World Series title in four seasons, added to the significance of this ball.

Honoring a Baseball Milestone

SCP Auctions president David Kohler expressed great honor in handling one of the most important artifacts in World Series history, dating back to 1903. This ball represents a moment that will be etched in the memories of baseball fans for generations to come. It showcases the power and excitement of the game, as well as the value placed on these rare and historic items.The Dodgers' manager, Dave Roberts, went on to say that Freeman's slam "might be the greatest baseball moment" he's ever witnessed. Such a statement highlights the impact that this single event had on the team and the sport as a whole.

The Fan's Story

The fan who caught the ball, Zachary Ruderman, a 10-year-old, was initially told he was leaving school early to get his braces off. However, his parents had a surprise in store for him - taking him to Game 1 instead. When Freeman's historic blast, the second walk-off grand slam in MLB postseason history, rattled around under the seat in front of Zachary, he showed remarkable composure by batting it to his father, who immediately jumped on it. This story adds a human touch to the already remarkable tale of the ball's journey.The Ruderman family, in a statement from SCP Auctions, expressed their hope that the baseball would one day be displayed in Dodger Stadium. This sentiment reflects the deep connection that fans have with their teams and the desire to preserve these special moments.

The Auction Experience

In the same auction, the only Lou Gehrig World Series jersey to ever surface, worn in several games during the 1937 season including the World Series, was a highly anticipated item. Expected to fetch upward of $4 million, bidding unfortunately did not meet the set reserve price, which a spokesperson from SCP Auctions told ESPN they could not disclose. This shows the competitiveness and high expectations of the auction market for baseball memorabilia.Despite the unsold jersey, the sale of Freddie Freeman's ball demonstrated the continued fascination and value placed on these unique pieces of baseball history. It serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and celebrating these moments that have shaped the sport.