Pete Alonso Makes Stance On New York Mets Clear With New Comments
New York Mets fans are still reeling from Wednesday’s news that Pete Alonso is a member of another club. It’s real: the Baltimore Orioles have finalized a five-year, $155 million deal with the Polar Bear, and Alonso was formally introduced as an Oriole during a press conference on Friday.
Not surprisingly, Alonso was asked during the presser to describe his feelings about the Mets, the franchise that he’s been with for his entire MLB career (seven seasons) up until now.
Reports have indicated that Alonso’s discussions with New York’s front office last offseason were tense as the two sides talked about his contract situation and future with the club. For this reason, and others, many Mets fans have seen Alonso’s eventual departure written on the wall, even if the suddenness of Wednesday’s signing — and the team he signed with — surprised many.
In contrast to the reports of friction between Alonso and the Mets org, Alonso had nothing but positive and loving things to say about his former franchise.
“I’ve really enjoyed playing in New York,” Alonso said. “I’m very gracious for that opportunity. There’s some amazing people over there, whether it be the locker room staff, clubbies, it’s phenomenal. I really enjoyed my time, but this right here, this organization, this city, I’m so proud to call it home.”
Pete was a great Met from the jump. He won Rookie of the Year in his first season and also finished No. 7 in National League MVP voting that year (2019).
Alonso ended up bagging five All-Star berths and a Silver Slugger while wearing a Mets uniform. He also departs Queens as the franchise’s all-time leader in home runs. An exceptional legacy.
The Mets, meanwhile, have to figure out how to replace Alonso at first base. Mets fans are by and large furious with ownership and the front office at the moment, given the fact that Brandon Nimmo, Edwin Díaz, and Alonso are suddenly all on other teams, and New York doesn’t have much at all to show for it.