The ball that clinched the Dodgers’ 2024 World Series title is getting a second life—this time, for a greater cause. Instead of sitting in a trophy case, it’s heading to auction, with all proceeds supporting fire relief efforts in Los Angeles County. From a stadium full of cheers to a city in need, this piece of history is about to make waves again. And the real question is—who’s stepping up to be part of the movement?
Previously, it was Shohei Ohtani, Freddie Freeman, and more. And now it’s many of ours’ favorite—the Dodgers’ catcher, Will Smith. He and his wife organized the auction through the Catching Hope Foundation to ensure that the individuals affected by the wildfire are benefitted and given the desired support as well. That’s a great step forward, isn’t it?
It’s indeed a great move. During the final pitching of the Dodgers’ World Series victory, starting pitcher Walker Buehler threw the ball, which helped him to make a sudden relief appearance, getting the final strike in the game-5 win against the New York Yankees. On March 14, MLB insider Bill Shaikin shared a post on his X handle: “Will Smith is auctioning the ball he caught for the last out of the 2024 World Series, with proceeds going toward Southern California wildfire relief. It’s a partnership among the foundations for Smith, for Walker Buehler, and for the Dodgers.”
Will Smith is auctioning the ball he caught for the last out of the 2024 World Series, with proceeds going toward Southern California wildfire relief.
It’s a partnership among the foundations for Smith, for Walker Buehler (who threw the pitch), and for the Dodgers.
— Bill Shaikin (@BillShaikin) March 13, 2025
While this win propelled the Dodgers to be at the top, winning two times in four years and lifting the eighth championship title, Will Smith considered it to be the home that had welcomed and supported him since 2019. Due to this, his goal is to give it back and form a partnership with the city that can be helpful to make things turn around perfectly, ensuring renovation and providing support to those affected by the wildfire. The ball will be displayed at the stadium during the first game against the Detroit Tigers in the later part of the month.
Who else has been a part of the fire relief efforts?
Shohei Ohtani donated $500K to support fire relief efforts
The raging wildfire incident in LA County during the early part of the year not only took more than 28 lives but also destroyed hundreds of homes, displacing thousands of residents and leaving them with nothing. While Will Smith’s Smith Foundation helped to support the underprivileged children, Dodgers’ superstar Shohei Ohtani also lent his helping hand, donating $500K to support them. Ohtani even expressed gratitude towards the firefighters, who left no stone unturned to fight for the people during the wildfires. But that’s not all!
The Los Angeles Dodgers’ partnership with the different sports organizations in LAW and organizing campaigns by bringing the “LA Strong” collection of merchandise also helped. It featured Ohtani’s picture on the Dodgers shirt, while the Dodgers also collaborated with other sports organizations to sell different kinds of t-shirts and other merchandise. Not just Ohtani; Freddie Freeman, along with Mookie Betts, also donated some money to ensure that the people affected by the wildfire get clothes and footwear. Their contribution aimed at delivering wildfire relief to the affected ones while promoting commitment to philanthropy and support for the community as a whole.
Do you think the auction is a good move to support the people affected by the wildfire? Let us know in the comment section below.
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