Dodgers pitcher Shohei Ohtani, who also serves as the team's designated hitter, is facing challenges at the start of the 2024 season. Despite signing a record-breaking $700 million deal, controversies have surrounded his time in Los Angeles. Accusations of gambling led to the firing of Ohtani's interpreter, and now a home run ball has fans questioning the Dodgers' actions.
Ohtani hit his first home run as a Dodger on April 3, with the ball caught by a fan named Ambar Roman. Roman was then allegedly pressured to trade the ball for two signed hats, a signed bat, and a signed ball. This situation mirrors past instances in MLB, such as Mark McGwire's 70th home run ball in 1998. These incidents highlight the tension between fans, players, and teams over the value of game memorabilia.
