Shohei Ohtani’s worn cleats fetch wild auction prices amid MLB buzz

On 14 July 2026, Shohei Ohtani’s worn cleats from a recent start drew bids pushing past $5,000 in online auctions. The spike reflects a broader trend: collectors are paying premium prices for any gear tied to the two-way star’s dominant performances.

Auction houses reported multiple listings for Ohtani’s used cleats from a June 28 game against the Texas Rangers. One pair sold for $5,200, while another fetched $3,800. The buyer pool skewed toward U.S. and Japanese collectors, with some bidding wars lasting over 48 hours. The cleats’ value hinges on their direct link to Ohtani’s on-field action.

The surge tracks Ohtani’s 2026 resurgence. His 1.02 ERA and 15 homers in 50 games have re-energized the market for his memorabilia. Analysts note that Ohtani’s dual-threat role-both as a pitcher and hitter-makes his gear more desirable than single-position stars’. His July 10 start against the Houston Astros drew extra attention after he struck out 11 over six innings.

Experts expect the trend to keep rising if Ohtani maintains his form. Upcoming items-like his July 14 jersey-are already listed with opening bids above $10,000. The market’s growth mirrors the rise of Ohtani-focused collectibles, which have outpaced other MLB stars’ gear by 30% this season. Auction houses are now prioritizing authenticated Ohtani items to meet demand.