"More people protecting Shohei Ohtani's ball than Mona Lisa" - Fans amused by security guards overseeing Dodgers stars 50/50 home run ball in Taiwan
Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani once again took the baseball world by storm this season. He became the first player in history to hit at least 50 home runs and steal 50 bases during a single season.
The ball sold at auction for a record-shattering $4.4 million. It is now being held on display in the Taipei 101 building in Taiwan with a heavy presence overseeing the exhibit.
The guards look like they are protecting a jewel-encrusted crown rather than a baseball. However, with the amount of money that ball brought it, the value could be pretty similar.
Fans took to social media to share their reaction on the matter. They could not help but poke fun at the seriousness of the situation.
"More people protecting Shohei's ball than the Mona Lisa," said DraftKings.
"They look like agents of Covid," said a fan.
"That’s some VIP treatment for a baseball! Ohtani's influence even extends to his home run balls getting security detail," said another.
Some fans are taken aback at just how serious this display is. There is no way anybody is even getting close to this ball.
"Wow very tight security team," said a fan.
"Dude on the far left would throw you out a window," said another.
"Has there ever been a more overseen ball?" wrote a user.
The ball will be available for everyone to see until March 2, 2025, so if you're in Taiwan anytime soon, this is a must-stop attraction.
Shohei Ohtani on-pace to bring home 3rd MVP Award
Shohei Ohtani is coming off a historic season. He has put himself in great contention to win his third MVP Award, which would put him right up there with his former teammate, Mike Trout.
If Ohtani did win the NL MVP Award, it would be the third of his career. Trout is the only other active player with three to his name.
It would be hard to deny Ohtani the award this year after everything he has done. He became the first player to join the 50-50 club while holding an NL-leading 9.2 WAR.
The only other player that has had a comparable season is Aaron Judge, and he is the finalist in the American League. So, do not expect many surprises when the league announces its MVP Awards on November 21 at 6 p.m. ET.