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Orioles vs Mets took on a deeply personal meaning Monday as Pete Alonso returned to Citi Field wearing a Baltimore Orioles uniform for the first time. The former New York Mets slugger received an emotional welcome from fans before the series opener, marking his first appearance at his former home since signing a five-year, $155 million contract with Baltimore last December.
Alonso spent seven seasons with the Mets from 2019 through 2025 and became the most prolific home run hitter in franchise history. Although he was born and raised in Tampa, the 31-year-old first baseman has long considered New York a second home. Citi Field was where he built his reputation, created countless memories and established himself as one of baseball’s most feared power hitters.
A Powerful and Emotional Orioles vs Mets Reunion
Monday’s reunion was unusual for Alonso. Instead of preparing in the Mets’ home clubhouse, he walked to the opposite end of the stadium and joined the visiting Orioles. The change felt strange, but familiar faces remained everywhere.
“Honestly, it’s a little weird,” Alonso said. “But because we’re in the same building, there’s so much familiarity to it. It feels good.”
The Mets crowd quickly made its feelings clear. Fans gathered on the field during batting practice applauded Alonso, with some beginning a “Pete Alonso” chant. Before the first pitch, the organization staged a tribute celebrating his years in New York.
Despite arriving as an opponent, Alonso was treated like a beloved former star rather than a visitor. He expressed appreciation for the support and said he was grateful that fans recognized the effort he gave throughout his Mets career.
“I care so much about leaving it all out on the field,” Alonso said. “For them to recognize and appreciate that continuously, it’s really special.”
Alonso Chasing Career Home Run No. 300
The return became even more significant because Alonso entered the series with 299 career home runs. That left him one swing away from reaching a major milestone at the ballpark where he hit 123 home runs during his Mets tenure.
Alonso has already hit 264 home runs for New York, along with five more in the postseason. His most memorable Mets homer came during the 2024 National League Wild Card Series, when he launched a game-winning home run against Milwaukee Brewers closer Devin Williams.
Alonso has called that postseason blast his favorite moment with the Mets. A 300th career home run at Citi Field would provide another unforgettable chapter, even if it came while representing Baltimore.
There is also the possibility of a remarkable shared milestone. Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor entered Monday with 299 career home runs as well. If both players went deep in the same game, they could reach 300 together in front of the New York crowd.
Why Baltimore Has Quickly Become Home
While the emotional focus centered on Alonso’s Mets legacy, his current success with the Orioles has been impossible to overlook. Entering Monday, he had played all 150 games and was hitting .269 with 24 doubles, 35 home runs, 100 RBIs and an .863 OPS.
His 100 RBIs led the American League, while his improved defense at first base and leadership in the clubhouse strengthened his value to Baltimore. The Orioles have also embraced Alonso’s personality, charitable work and energy.
His contributions away from the field helped make him Baltimore’s nominee for the Roberto Clemente Award. Alonso said Orioles staff members, teammates, coaches and fans made the transition easy for his family.
“Baltimore was putting in a tremendous effort,” Alonso said. “I feel like Baltimore’s home.”
A New Chapter After Free Agency
The Mets had the financial flexibility to potentially compete for Alonso during free agency, but it became increasingly clear that a reunion was unlikely as the offseason progressed. Rather than viewing the separation as motivation or resentment, Alonso said he focused on the opportunity Baltimore presented.
He praised the Orioles for their commitment and said he could see himself finishing his career in Baltimore. That message added another layer to the series: New York represented his past, while Baltimore now represents his future.
The Orioles vs Mets matchup therefore carried significance beyond the standings. It brought together a franchise legend, a new contender and two longtime teammates who were both pursuing career milestones. For Alonso, the night was about gratitude, competition and moving forward without forgetting where his career began.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Pete Alonso’s return to Citi Field significant?
It was Alonso’s first visit to Citi Field as an opponent after spending seven seasons with the Mets and becoming the franchise’s all-time home run leader.
How many career home runs did Alonso have entering the series?
Alonso entered Monday with 299 career home runs, leaving him one homer short of the 300 milestone.
How many home runs did Alonso hit for the Mets?
He hit 264 regular-season home runs for New York and added five postseason homers.
Could Alonso and Francisco Lindor reach 300 home runs together?
Yes. Lindor also entered Monday with 299 career home runs, creating the possibility that both former teammates could reach 300 in the same game.
Why is Alonso happy with the Orioles?
Alonso said Baltimore welcomed his family, supported his transition and made the organization feel like home soon after he signed.
