It was an average Monday for most, but for Champ Stutts, a six-year-old from Texas, it turned into a day he would never forget. As an avid baseball card collector with a collection exceeding a thousand cards, Champ stumbled upon something truly special—an ultra-rare “one of one” Paul Skenes Onyx card. The kindergartner’s excitement was palpable as he uncovered this extraordinary find, igniting a whirlwind of attention from the collecting community and beyond.
Captured in a heartwarming video by his mother, Kristi, and shared on the family’s TikTok account, “Stutts Family Fun,” Champ’s infectious joy quickly spread like wildfire online. Within hours, the video caught the eye of LSU gymnast Livvy Dunne, who happens to be Paul Skenes’ girlfriend. Livvy not only commented on the TikTok post but also made sure Skenes himself saw the video.
In a heartwarming twist, Paul Skenes reached out and commented on the video, promising Champ a memorable experience by inviting him to one of his baseball games. The unexpected attention didn’t stop there—the Pittsburgh Pirates, Skenes’ team, also decided to join in on the fun. They got in touch with the Stutts family and pledged to send Champ a personalized Paul Skenes jersey, solidifying this enchanting moment for the young baseball enthusiast.
Champ’s love for baseball cards is a family affair, with his father passing down the passion for collecting. The father-son duo had been on the hunt for a Skenes Topps Chrome rookie patch card since last November, making Champ’s discovery all the more serendipitous. Even Champ’s two-year-old brother has caught the fever, insisting on snuggling with cards every night. As a protective big brother, Champ makes sure to remind his sibling to handle the valuable cards with care, ensuring their pristine condition is maintained.
The unexpected turn of events had fans of the Texas Rangers finding a new team to cheer for, thanks to Champ’s viral moment in the baseball card world. The Stutts family’s heartwarming story serves as a reminder of the magic and joy that childhood curiosity can bring, sparking connections that transcend distances and ages.
Champ’s remarkable find is a testament to the serendipity of moments that can turn a mundane day into an unforgettable memory. With Paul Skenes and the Pittsburgh Pirates rallying around him, this young collector’s tale has captured the hearts of many, creating a bond that bridges the world of professional sports with the innocence of childhood wonder.