Albert Pujols had a classy gesture for the fans who caught his No. 697 home run ball

Just a few months ago, Albert Pujols’ pursuit of 700 home runs seemed like a long shot. But since the All-Star break, he’s been among the best hitters in baseball. In addition to his now-all-but-certain spot in the 700 Club, Pujols has handled the home run chase with absolute grace.

On Sunday, Pujols hit his 697th career home run against the Pittsburgh Pirates — a go-ahead home run in the ninth inning — to pass Alex Rodriguez on the all-time list. Pujols is now No. 4 on the all-time home run table, trailing just Barry Bonds, Hank Aaron and Babe Ruth.

But keep an eye on the fan who ended up with the baseball.

That fan was Matt Brown, who was attending the game with his wife, Samantha. After the game, Matt and Samantha were escorted to the clubhouse area at PNC Park to deliver the historic baseball to Pujols. But rather than just take the ball, sign some autographs and go on his way, Pujols took the time to meet the two fans. That was when Pujols learned that Samantha’s father died a year ago to the day, so he told them to keep the milestone baseball instead.

It doesn’t get much cooler than that. Pujols could have taken the baseball, but he felt that it would have been more meaningful to Samantha. So, he let them leave with the historic souvenir. He also signed a pair of baseballs for them. You also have to respect the confidence from Pujols, knowing that more home runs are coming.

Fans loved this latest chapter in Pujols’ pursuit of 700.