Christian Lopez, Fan That Caught Jeter Ball, Gets Tax Help

The first thought that ran through Christian Lopez's head when he caught Derek Jeter's 3,000th hit-home run on Saturday was probably not, "I wonder what the tax implications of me catching this ball are?"

However, that's exactly what the 23-year-old cell phone salesman has had to deal with this week when he became aware of the possible taxes he might have to pay on the slew of presents that the New York Yankees gave him in the form of suite tickets and memorabilia.  

Estimated to be anywhere from $5,000 to $14,000, the tax bill would be extremely overwhelming to this recent college grad who still owes $150,000 in student loans.

Since word got out about this tax issue, businesses and private individuals have stepped forward to offer help to Lopez.  Two sporting goods companies, Steiner Sports and Modell Sporting Goods Company, have offered to help raise money and have each guaranteed to give Lopez at least $25,000 to offset his student loans.

Welcome To The High Life, Christian Lopez

Also getting in on the act is Miller High Life, who have vowed to pay Lopez' tax bill should he get one.

 "Miller High Life believes you should be rewarded for doing the right thing, not penalized," Miller High Life brand manager Brendan Noonan said in a statement. "We want to recognize Christian Lopez, and in turn everyone like him, for doing the common sense thing and help him continue to live the High Life."

This is welcome news for the young Lopez, who had been criticized over the weekend for simply giving the special baseball back to Derek Jeter and the Yankees and asking for nothing in return.