A memorable moment from the Toronto Blue Jays' thrilling 2025 playoff run has translated into a significant financial windfall for one lucky fan. Michael Angeletti, an Etobicoke resident, has earned approximately $30,000 Canadian after catching and later selling the historic home run ball hit by George Springer in Game 7 of the American League Championship Series.
The Catch That Captured a City
The iconic moment occurred on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, during the decisive seventh game of the ALCS against the Seattle Mariners at Rogers Centre. With the game on the line, George Springer launched a three-run homer that would ultimately seal the series victory and send the Blue Jays to the World Series.
In the stands, Michael Angeletti was multitasking, texting his cousins when he heard the crack of the bat. "I knew it was good but I was not quite ready," Angeletti recalled. "I had to drop my phone, put on my glove and jump up and grab the ball." He secured the historic souvenir after it bounced off his glove into his other hand, instantly becoming a part of Blue Jays lore.
From Souvenir to Substantial Payday
Initially unsure of what to do with the valuable piece of sports history, Angeletti fielded offers, including one for $60,000. He decided to hold onto the ball through the World Series, a move that could have increased its value had the Blue Jays defeated the Los Angeles Dodgers to claim the championship.
Ultimately, Angeletti consigned the ball with the Goldin auction house. The bidding opened at $10,000 US and concluded at a final sale price of $26,840 US. After exchange rates and fees, Angeletti's net proceeds amounted to roughly $30,306.21 Canadian.
"Happy result," said the affable fan. "30K moves the needle." He celebrated his good fortune with a cruise vacation, which he humorously referred to as a "little Springer Dinger celebration."
A Shared Playoff Profit
Angeletti's story parallels that of Blue Jays owner Edward Rogers, who also reaped significant financial benefits from the team's deep playoff run, as detailed in a separate report. While Rogers' gains were on a corporate scale, Angeletti's personal windfall highlights how memorable moments in sports can create unexpected opportunities for fans.
Springer himself was supportive of Angeletti's decision to sell the ball, indicating he was "cool with whatever" the fan chose to do with the souvenir. The identity of the final buyer at auction remains unknown.
Looking ahead, Angeletti, like all Blue Jays fans, is already turning his attention to the 2026 season. "To have lost in such heartbreaking fashion will only toughen our resolve as a fan base and a city," he stated. "I believe our city and team will be stronger and more poised to reclaim the world sporting spotlight."
While the famous baseball has found a new home, the story of the fan who made the clutch catch in the stands of Rogers Centre will remain a cherished part of Toronto's 2025 playoff narrative.
