ARLINGTON, Texas - Houston Astros outfielder George Springer became the first player in major league history to slam a leadoff homer on back-to-back Opening Days.
The 2017 World Series Most Valuable Player wanted the baseball from Thursday’s opening game against the Rangers, but for a completely different reason.
Rangers fan Noah Stinchcomb ended up with it after Springer drove the ball into the right field seats. The 7-year-old, along with his father Nate, promptly returned the ball to George in exchange for a signed baseball and an autographed bat.
Springer wanted the ball because it was the 100th home run of his career. The Astros beat the Rangers, 4-1.
Stinchcomb says he can’t wait to show the bat to his friends. Springer added the inscription ‘Thank you.’
Stinchcomb and his father also planned to take a photograph with Springer after the game