World Series 2011: Fan Returns David Freese Home Run Ball (VIDEO)

It was one of the most exciting World Series games in recent memory as the Cardinals beat the Rangers 10-9 Thursday, but it will be a night that Dave Huyette will absolutely never forget. The story is of just how the 39-year old radiologist from Maryville, Ill., became a "national hero" will go down in MLB history.

 World Series 2011: Fan David Huyette (with friend) Returns David Freese Game 6 Home Run Ball

The Texas Rangers came within striking distance of the championship twice, and twice the St. Louis Cardinals fended them off.

David Freese had tied the score in the 9th inning of Game 6 of the World Series, then went on to win it outright in the 11th inning with a home run, keeping the Card's dreams alive with an epic 10-9 victory.

But back to Dave Huyette: He ran into the outfield to retrieve that home run off Freeze's bat that came flying towards him, and shoved the ball down his pants to keep anyone from getting it away from him.

On the way out of the stadium, Huyette was told by stadium security either Freese or the MLB would have interest in the ball. For Huyette, it was a no-brainer.

"Maybe if I had been wanting for money, it'd be different. But I make a good living. I wasn't going to hold the country hostage for the ball. I told them I didn't need any money, but it'd be nice to meet some of the players," he said. 

And that's what he did. Huyette got to make a trip to the locker room to meet his beloved St. Louis Cardinals.

The object lesson here is that sometimes, no matter how much money is at stake, a handshake is worth more than all the eBay money can buy