A Philadelphia Phillies fan who took a home-run ball from a child at a recent game is now the subject of a $5,000 offer for her autograph. The offer comes from a collectibles store, which has requested that she sign the ball with the phrase, "I’m sorry." The store plans to return the autographed ball to the child, who was celebrating his birthday at the game.
The incident occurred during a game between the Phillies and the Miami Marlins on Friday. Drew Feltwell, the boy's father, was in the stands with his family, including his son, Lincoln, who was turning 10. When a home-run ball landed in the seats, Feltwell retrieved it for Lincoln. However, the situation escalated when another fan, a woman, approached Feltwell after a brief exchange.
Witnesses reported a heated discussion between Feltwell and the woman, who demanded the ball back. After a few moments of back-and-forth, Feltwell ultimately took the ball from his son's glove and handed it to the woman, who then returned to her seat. This incident has gained significant attention on social media, although the woman's identity remains unverified.
Despite the disappointment of losing the ball, Lincoln was quickly cheered up. A stadium employee noticed the situation and gifted him and his sister a bag filled with merchandise. Additionally, the Phillies organization arranged for Lincoln to meet Harrison Bader, the player who hit the home run. The team shared on social media that Lincoln would be going home with a signed bat from Bader.
The incident highlights the passionate nature of baseball fans and the sometimes intense competition for memorabilia at games.