Freddie Freeman’s Walk-Off Slam Ball Sells for $1.56M, Becomes Third-Most Expensive Baseball Ever
What’s better than a walk-off grand slam in the World Series? How about the ball from that unforgettable moment selling for a jaw-dropping $1.56 million? That’s exactly what happened late Saturday night when Freddie Freeman’s historic Game 1 blast from the 2024 World Series went under the hammer at SCP Auctions. The final price tag, which includes the buyer’s premium, makes it the third-most expensive baseball ever sold. Let’s break it all down.
A Grand Slam for the Record Books
Freddie Freeman’s walk-off grand slam wasn’t just a game-winner—it was a moment for the ages. The Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman sent the crowd into a frenzy with his 10th-inning heroics, securing a Game 1 victory in the 2024 World Series. The Dodgers would go on to win the series in five games, with Freeman earning MVP honors. This marked his second World Series title in just four seasons, cementing his legacy as one of the game’s greats.
But the magic didn’t stop there. The ball from Freeman’s historic homer has now etched its own place in baseball history. Selling for $1.56 million, it surpassed Aaron Judge’s 62nd home run ball, which fetched $1.5 million in 2022. Only two baseballs have ever sold for more: Shohei Ohtani’s $4.392 million 50/50 home run ball and Mark McGwire’s 70th home run ball, which went for roughly $3 million back in 1999.
A Moment to Remember
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts didn’t hold back when describing the significance of Freeman’s grand slam. “It might be the greatest baseball moment I’ve ever witnessed,” he said. And honestly, who could argue? The blast was only the second walk-off grand slam in MLB postseason history, making it a once-in-a-lifetime moment for fans and players alike.
Speaking of fans, the story of how the ball was caught is just as heartwarming as the moment itself. Ten-year-old Zachary Ruderman was supposed to be getting his braces off that day—or so he thought. Instead, his parents surprised him with tickets to Game 1. When Freeman’s grand slam rattled under the seat in front of him, Zachary batted it to his dad, who pounced on it like a pro. Talk about a family memory for the ages!
In a statement released by SCP Auctions, the Ruderman family expressed their hope that the ball would one day be displayed at Dodger Stadium. Whether or not that happens, the ball’s legacy is already secure.
Other Auction Highlights
Freeman’s grand slam ball wasn’t the only item up for grabs at SCP Auctions. The auction also featured a rare piece of baseball history: the only known Lou Gehrig World Series jersey. Worn during several games in the 1937 season, including the World Series, the jersey was expected to fetch upwards of $4 million. However, it went unsold after failing to meet the reserve price. A spokesperson for SCP Auctions declined to disclose the reserve amount.
Why This Sale Matters
Baseball memorabilia has always been a hot commodity, but sales like this highlight just how much fans are willing to pay for a piece of history. SCP Auctions president David Kohler called Freeman’s grand slam ball “one of the most important artifacts in World Series history, dating back to 1903.” That’s a bold statement, but it’s hard to argue when you consider the context. Freeman’s homer wasn’t just a game-winner—it was a moment that encapsulated the drama, excitement, and unpredictability of October baseball.
Top 3 Most Expensive Baseballs Ever Sold
Here’s a quick look at the top three most expensive baseballs ever sold:
- Shohei Ohtani’s 50/50 home run ball: $4.392 million
- Mark McGwire’s 70th home run ball: $3 million
- Freddie Freeman’s walk-off grand slam ball: $1.56 million
Freeman’s ball may sit in third place for now, but its significance to Dodgers fans and baseball history is priceless.
What’s Next?
As the dust settles on the 2024 World Series, one thing is clear: Freddie Freeman’s legacy is only growing. Whether it’s his clutch performances on the field or the record-breaking sale of his memorabilia, Freeman continues to make headlines. And for Dodgers fans, his walk-off grand slam will forever be a moment to cherish.
So, what do you think? Was Freeman’s grand slam the greatest postseason moment in recent memory? And would you pay $1.56 million for a piece of baseball history? Let us know your thoughts!
Originally Written by: David Schoenfield
