A nameplate used by Japanese superstar Shohei Ohtani during the World Baseball Classic in the United States has been sold for $116,010 in an online auction ©Getty Images

A locker room nameplate used by Shohei Ohtani when Japan won the World Baseball Classic for a record third time last month has been sold for $116,010 (£93,419/€105,883) in an online auction.

The Samurai Japan clubhouse leader was named Most Valuable Player of the tournament after inspiring his team with a series of outstanding performances at the plate and on the mound.

The nameplate, which is not autographed, features Ohtani's name, the number 16 worn on his uniform, and the Japanese flag.

It attracted 169 bids between April 6 and 16 on the official Major League Baseball auction site.

Shohei Ohtani's nameplate featured his name, squad number and the Japanese flag, but was unsigned ©MLB
Shohei Ohtani's nameplate featured his name, squad number and the Japanese flag, but was unsigned ©MLB

Ohtani sealed Japan's title by closing the final against the United States at LoanDepot park in Miami and striking out Los Angeles Angels teammate Mike Trout in the dramatic last at-bat of the tournament to give his team a 3-2 victory.

The ability of the 28-year-old to excel at both pitching and hitting has drawn comparisons with the legendary Babe Ruth.

When his contract comes up for renewal at the end of this season, he is expected to be able to attract a record sum of more than $500 million (£403 million/€456 million) with whomever he signs.

Earlier this month, it was announced that the cap worn by Ohtani during Japan's victory over the US is to go on display at the World Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum in Cooperstown in New York.