![\"Seattle](\"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/mlb\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/f32d85a3fd0ea87fa100336600a45086.jpeg\"\/)
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Seattle Mariners v New York Mets New York Mets first baseman Pete Alonso flips the game ball to relief pitcher Edwin Diaz after the final out of the Mets 3-1 victory in the baseball game against the Seattle Mariners at Citi Field in Corona, N.Y., on August 16, 2025. New York City United States Copyright: xGordonxDonovanx originalFilename:donovan-seattlem250816_np9H8<\/p>\n
That reality showed a clear difference between Baltimore\u2019s commitment and New York\u2019s measured approach toward Alonso.<\/p>\n
Meanwhile, the New York Mets offered Edwin D\u00edaz $66 million, showing willingness to negotiate with other stars. Sources confirmed the Mets anticipated Alonso was testing markets before potentially returning to the Mets under adjusted expectations.<\/p>\n
However, Baltimore\u2019s five-year offer removed any realistic pathway for the Mets retaining him. That moment defined everything, showing clearly where Alonso stood within the Mets\u2019 organizational priorities.<\/p>\n
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Alonso left holding the Mets franchise record with 264 home runs across seven seasons. He surpassed Darryl Strawberry\u2019s longstanding mark of 252 homers during an emotional summer celebration at Citi Field. His power kept the Mets competitive, including crucial homers during their dramatic 2024 playoff run. That season, the Mets reached within two games of the World Series.<\/p>\n
David Stearns still publicly called Alonso \u201ca great Met\u201d during offseason media availability interviews. However, those words contrasted with reality, since the organization never formally extended any proposal.<\/p>\n
Darryl Strawberry suggested that Alonso might regret leaving New York and the historic opportunities one day. He referenced his own departure and personal regret following leaving the Mets. However, the Mets never offering Alonso any contract complicates the argument about loyalty expectations from players.<\/p>\n
Players choose teams, valuing them, especially when there is a guaranteed $155 million contract. And Strawberry might argue that money is not everything, but if that\u2019s the case, Pete Alonso will argue that the Mets should have valued him as the Orioles did. And if they did, Alonso would still be in Queens, giving his best.<\/p>\n
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Pete Alonso makes his allegiance to the Orioles clear<\/p>\n
The Baltimore Orioles gave Pete Alonso what he wants, and Pete Alonso is showing immediate impact at Orioles Park.<\/p>\n
Pete Alonso announced himself by hitting 2 home runs in 2 Grapefruit League games. Those swings gave Baltimore Orioles fans early proof that their new investment is making an immediate impact.<\/p>\n
Pete Alonso joined the camp and instantly became a visible presence inside the clubhouse. Teammates noticed communication happening smoothly, reflecting his intent to guide teammates from the first day. Alonso said, \u201cI just want to share my experience when I can.\u201d<\/p>\n
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His leadership focus continued as teammates responded positively during early spring training workouts.<\/p>\n
He emphasized consistency, saying winning at-bats mattered more than simply chasing highlight moments. Pete Alonso explained, \u201cIt\u2019s not just wanting to be a hitter, it\u2019s winning at-bats.\u201d He reinforced that approach after posting a .272 average and 170 hits last season with the Mets.<\/p>\n
Those numbers showed efficiency, supporting his focus on smarter offensive decision-making.<\/p>\n