In a notable shift, Mets powerhouse Pete Alonso will be skipping the Home Run Derby festivities during this season’s All-Star break for the first time in his stellar career. It’s a pause, not an end, to what has been an electrifying run in the derby for Alonso.
“I just decided not to do it this year,” shared Alonso. “I’ve never really fully enjoyed the three off-days, so I just want to be in the best possible position to help this team win in the second half. I’m in a groove with certain things.”
And what a groove it is. Alonso is putting up some of the best numbers of his career, batting .287 with a .380 on-base percentage and an impressive .923 OPS. It’s the kind of performance that earned him his fifth All-Star nod on Sunday, a well-deserved recognition of a player in his prime.
Alonso, who made waves by claiming victory in his first two Home Run Derbies back in 2019 and 2021, has always been a fan favorite. Though he reached the semi-finals in 2022, he’s faced a couple of early exits in recent years. But the love for the event hasn’t waned. “I love the event. It’s a sick event,” Alonso emphasized. “I definitely will do it again. It doesn’t mean ‘No’ forever. I figure I’ll take a break.”
While Alonso takes a breather this year, the stage is set for other talents to shine. Atlanta’s Ronald Acuña Jr., Seattle’s Cal Raleigh, and Washington’s James Wood are all gearing up to swing for the fences in this beloved exhibition of power hitting. Keep your eyes peeled, because the competition promises to be as thrilling as ever.
