When a fan catches a milestone home run, such as Shohei Ohtani’s first homer with the Los Angeles Dodgers, there is a well-established process that takes place. The fan is usually escorted from their seat by team officials to negotiate what it will take for them to part with the ball. This can range from signed memorabilia to cold hard cash. However, it is important to note that the fan has the right to keep the ball if they choose to do so.
Recently, this process became the center of unnecessary drama when it occurred during Ohtani’s home run on Thursday. The fan who caught the ball, Ambar Roman, and her husband expressed their dissatisfaction with how they were treated by the Dodgers in an interview with The Athletic. Roman claims that she was separated from her husband and pressured into giving up the ball for very little compensation.
Roman eventually exchanged the ball for two signed hats, a signed ball, and a signed bat. An auction house estimated that the ball might be worth at least $100,000. This situation raised questions regarding the Dodgers’ treatment of fans and their motives behind acquiring the ball.
According to Roman’s husband, Alexis Valenzuela, they were taken advantage of by the Dodgers. He described a situation where they were surrounded by security guards and not allowed to leave or communicate freely. The Dodgers allegedly threatened to refuse to authenticate the ball if Roman decided to take it home, rendering it worthless in the market.
Furthermore, there was a discrepancy regarding Ohtani’s claim of having spoken to the fan and getting the ball back. Roman and Valenzuela stated that they never had the opportunity to meet Ohtani, despite his statements to the contrary. This raises concerns regarding Ohtani’s credibility and honesty.
This incident highlights the need for fans to be aware of their rights when they catch a significant ball. While teams may attempt to intimidate fans into relinquishing the ball, it is important to remember that the team will also face consequences. Refusing to authenticate the ball would not only devalue it but also result in negative publicity for the team.
This entire situation was bizarre and avoidable for the Dodgers, who have already faced numerous controversial stories this year. It serves as a reminder for teams to handle these situations with transparency and fairness, ensuring that fans are treated respectfully.
