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In an exhilarating night at Citi Field, Pete Alonso made history by becoming the all-time home run king of the New York Mets. With his 253rd career dinger, he eclipsed the previous record held by the legendary Darryl Strawberry. The milestone homer came during a matchup against the Atlanta Braves, marking a significant achievement not only for Alonso but also for the franchise.
On a night that will be remembered by fans and teammates alike, Alonso hit a two-run homer off Spencer Strider in the third inning. The blast gave the Mets a commanding 5-1 lead in the game. This record-breaking hit further highlights Alonso’s power-hitting prowess, as he accomplished this feat in just 965 career games—141 games fewer than Strawberry required to hit his milestone of 252 home runs.
Alonso’s Incredible Journey
Since making his major league debut in 2019, Pete Alonso has been a pivotal player for the Mets. He has consistently showcased his ability to drive the ball out of the park, hitting at least 34 home runs in every non-pandemic shortened season. Notably, Alonso’s resilience and commitment to the team have made him a fan favorite, as he leads all Mets players in consecutive games played.
Alonso’s return to the Mets on a hefty two-year, $54 million contract made the prospect of surpassing Strawberry’s record a tangible goal. With a passion for the game and a remarkable work ethic, Alonso is determined to make his mark on Mets history beyond this record. He now looks to widen the gap for future players, making it challenging for anyone to catch him in the years to come.
Impact on the Team and the Franchise
This milestone is not just crucial for Alonso personally but also speaks volumes about the Mets’ current trajectory. As per recent reports, the franchise has faced challenges in retaining consistent talent over the years. Alonso is an exception, having chosen to stay with the Mets despite temptations to join other teams. His decision underscores his loyalty and determination to build a legacy in one place.
With a new record to his name, Alonso is now in the spotlight not only as an outstanding player but also as a symbol of longevity and perseverance within the franchise. Support from the fan base was palpable during the game, highlighting the strong connection he has forged with the Mets community.
The Significance of Alonso’s Achievement
While the Mets’ all-time home run record may not be among the highest in MLB history, it carries significant weight for the franchise. Prior to Alonso, few players managed to pose a real challenge to Strawberry’s enduring record due to a lack of players spending enough time with the team. Notable figures such as David Wright, who ended his career with 242 home runs, were hindered by injuries that prevented them from chasing down the record. Other stars like Mike Piazza and Carlos Beltrán also had significant portions of their careers spent with other teams, leaving the door open for Alonso to establish himself as the definitive home run king for the Mets.
As he continues to bat this season, Alonso is primed to extend his record over the coming years, setting a bar that future players will struggle to reach. The electric atmosphere during his record-breaking game underlines the impact he has had on the team and the excitement he brings to the Mets fandom.
What’s Next for Pete Alonso?
Looking ahead, Alonso remains focused on adding to his record and contributing to the Mets’ success in the postseason. As the team gears up for the inevitable playoff push, fans eagerly anticipate what this power hitter will accomplish next. Underlining his commitment to the franchise, Alonso’s journey is far from over, with many more home runs potentially on the horizon.
FAQ
How many home runs has Pete Alonso hit in his career?
Pete Alonso has hit 253 home runs, making him the all-time leader for the New York Mets.
Who did Pete Alonso surpass to become the Mets’ home run king?
Alonso surpassed Darryl Strawberry, who previously held the record at 252 home runs.
What year did Pete Alonso make his MLB debut?
Pete Alonso made his MLB debut in 2019.
How many home runs has Alonso hit in this season?
As of now, Alonso is on pace to continue hitting home runs consistently, following his pattern of at least 34 homers each season since 2019.