Pirates bullpen makes deal, hands over signed bat in swap for rookie outfielder's first HR ball
The Pittsburgh Pirates made a unique trade involving rookie outfielder Esmerlyn Valdez's first home run ball. After Valdez hit the milestone home run, his teammates negotiated with a young fan to retrieve the ball. In exchange, Valdez provided a signed bat and an official cap to complete the deal.
- ▪Esmerlyn Valdez hit his first career home run during a game against Toronto.
- ▪The home run was a two-run blast that traveled 345 feet.
- ▪The ball was retrieved from a young fan in exchange for a signed bat and cap.
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