Pete Alonso donned a new shade of orange for the first time Friday, when the Orioles formally introduced the veteran slugger on the heels of a five-year, $155 million free-agent deal that raised some eyebrows across the league.
And less than 24 hours after issuing a heartfelt farewell message to Mets fans via social media, Alonso discussed his departure from Queens and why he pursued a move down to Baltimore.
“As the offseason progressed and we got further along, this partnership was head and shoulders above everybody else,” Alonso said. “This park, this city, this organization, everything combined just clicked. It was the perfect fit for me — not just as a player, but for family life as well. Every single box, this place checks.”
While it’s unclear if the Orioles were the only serious bidder willing to meet Alonso’s demands of a long-term contract at top dollar, he was undoubtedly sold on their pitch and offer.
It’s also worth noting that the Mets reportedly didn’t make a formal offer to Alonso. As a result, they’re searching for a different first baseman who can provide sufficient power and defense.
Consider this a tall order, too, since the Mets just parted ways with their all-time leader in home runs. In seven seasons with the club, Alonso slashed .253/.341/.516 with 264 homers, 183 doubles, and 712 RBI over 1,008 games.
He also made five NL All-Star appearances, earned Rookie of the Year honors in 2019, and won the Home Run Derby twice.
The Orioles are banking on Alonso to boost a lineup that finished last in the AL East last season, with a record of 75-87.
Their young nucleus — headlined by Gunnar Henderson, Adley Rutschman, and Jackson Holliday — remains intact, but a postseason berth in 2026 isn’t guaranteed.
Nevertheless, Alonso is looking forward to the change of scenery and the opportunity to lead a new clubhouse. He signed the second-largest contract in Orioles history.
“I’ve played on a couple winning teams. You need talent, you need some young guys, a mix of veterans, and commitment from top-bottom,” Alonso said. “For me, there’s no hesitation. Like, ‘Yup, that’s the team, these are the people. Baltimore’s it.'”
Alonso will need to wait a while for his first game as a Citi Field visitor next season, as the Mets aren’t scheduled to host the Orioles until Sept. 14-16.
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