Little Leaguer Sells Bat That Got Him Tossed
A bat flip that sparked controversy and a courtroom battle has ended on a high note for a young baseball player and his team. The bat tossed into the air by 12-year-old Marco Rocco of Haddonfield, New Jersey, after a home run celebration sold at auction on Friday for nearly $10,000.
The signed bat, which brought in a winning bid of $9,882 through Goldin Auctions, attracted 68 bids. The buyer’s identity has not been disclosed. All proceeds will benefit Haddonfield Little League, the organization Marco plays for.
“Marco loves Little League and is happy that he is able to give back to an organization that he is very fond of,” said his father, Joe Rocco, in a text message to the Associated Press. “Little League was such a big part of Marco’s life for a long time.”
The bat flip, which took place on July 16 during the final game of a sectional tournament, led to Marco’s ejection and a one-game suspension. That penalty would have sidelined him from the opening game of the state tournament — until his father successfully challenged the decision in court. A judge granted an emergency temporary restraining order, allowing Marco to compete in the double-elimination tournament.
The moment not only sparked a legal battle but also national attention, including support from Major League Baseball players. It even inspired a commemorative pin at the Little League World Series.
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