

Francesco Bagnaia’s Bold Comeback: ‘Fighting Marquez Again Is Better Than Nothing’
In a much-needed spark for the New York Mets, Pete Alonso went 3-for-4 with a double, one RBI, and one run scored during Thursday’s impressive 4-0 shutout victory over the Atlanta Braves. The performance served as a subtle reminder of the All-Star slugger’s potency at the plate, even as his recent stretch has seen a dip in power numbers.
Consistency Amid Quiet Streak
While Alonso’s latest outing was a return to form, the Mets’ first baseman has been riding a quieter stretch lately. Over his past 10 games, Alonso has hit .289 (11-for-38), a respectable average, though with just two extra-base hits and two RBIs to show for it.
The bigger concern during that period has been his 2:16 walk-to-strikeout ratio, which reflects a more aggressive or perhaps overly anxious approach at the plate. Still, Thursday’s outing marks his third multi-hit game in that span, a sign that he’s not far off from breaking back into a more explosive rhythm.
This stretch might suggest some inconsistency, but it’s actually a testament to Alonso’s ability to remain productive even when the home runs aren’t flying. His ability to adjust to different pitching strategies and still contribute speaks to the growth in his overall hitting approach.
Season Stats Still Impress
Despite the recent lull in production, Alonso’s season-long numbers remain stellar. Across 82 games, he’s slashing .292/.384/.549 with:
-
18 home runs
-
23 doubles
-
65 RBIs
-
46 runs scored
-
No stolen bases
That batting average, which sits just shy of .300, showcases a level of maturity and plate discipline Alonso has developed in 2025. His power remains intact too, as shown by his slugging percentage over .540. The blend of contact and slugging has made Alonso one of the most productive first basemen in the National League.
Perhaps most impressive is his ability to drive in runs consistently, even without a gaudy home run total in recent weeks. His RBI total reflects his value in clutch situations and his ability to cash in on scoring opportunities.
Quiet Confidence Amid Regression
It was inevitable that regression would arrive at some point during the season. No player can maintain red-hot power numbers indefinitely. But what’s impressive about Alonso’s season is that even during a so-called “slump,” he’s maintaining a nearly .290 average and contributing to run creation.
Some players ride hot and cold streaks with noticeable impact; Alonso appears to be managing his valleys gracefully, avoiding long-term droughts and continuing to grind out quality at-bats. His current approach at the plate shows he’s not pressing too much despite the temporary dip in home runs.
Even without constant fireworks, Alonso remains a threatening presence in the batter’s box. Pitchers can’t relax when facing him, and that opens up opportunities for his teammates to see better pitches and capitalize.
Alonso’s Growth as a Complete Hitter
Much of Alonso’s early career was defined by power. In 2019, he hit a rookie-record 53 home runs, earning the nickname “Polar Bear” and establishing himself as one of the league’s premier sluggers. But in 2025, he’s showing a different side of his game — one that includes a higher batting average, fewer strikeouts, and more opposite-field hits.
That evolution is critical for long-term success. As pitchers adapt and try to neutralize his power with off-speed pitches and better scouting, Alonso’s willingness to take what pitchers give him — even if it means settling for a single or double instead of swinging for the fences — is keeping him relevant and impactful.
His batting average is proof. Sitting near .300, it’s one of the highest marks of his career, indicating that Alonso is focusing more on making solid contact rather than swinging for home runs every at-bat.
Impact on the Mets’ Momentum
The Mets’ win over a tough divisional opponent like the Braves was crucial, and Alonso’s contribution helped fuel that result. When he’s locked in, the ripple effect is tangible across the entire Mets lineup. With Alonso anchoring the heart of the order, opposing pitchers are forced to pitch more carefully to those hitting around him.
His leadership also goes beyond the box score. Alonso is known for his clubhouse presence and emotional investment in the team. When he’s swinging well, the team feeds off that energy. It’s no coincidence that many of the Mets’ recent wins have involved timely hits or big moments from Alonso.
The Mets, hovering around .500 and trying to mount a charge in the competitive NL East, need Alonso more than ever. His production is a key barometer for their offensive success.
What Teammates and Coaches Are Saying
Manager Carlos Mendoza recently spoke about Alonso’s influence both on and off the field.
“Pete’s the heart of our lineup. Even when he’s not hitting home runs, he’s setting the tone. Whether it’s a walk, a single to right, or an RBI double, he gives us a lift. He’s a professional hitter now, not just a slugger.”
Teammate Francisco Lindor echoed similar sentiments:
“When Pete’s going good, we all feel it. He makes everyone else’s job easier.”
That respect is earned. Alonso’s approach has matured. He watches video, studies pitchers, and makes adjustments — qualities that separate good hitters from great ones.
Looking Ahead: A Critical Stretch
As the season moves into July, Alonso will be expected to lead the charge. The Mets face a slate of tough opponents and will need every ounce of offense they can get.
The All-Star break looms, and Alonso’s current numbers make him a strong candidate. If he can add a few more long balls to his resume before the break, he could lock in his spot among the league’s elite once again.
After that, the focus shifts to the postseason push. The Mets need to find their rhythm, and Alonso is at the center of that quest. His ability to hit for average and power makes him uniquely qualified to carry the team through slumps and hot streaks alike.
The Big Picture: Alonso’s Legacy in Progress
At 29 years old, Alonso is entering the prime of his career. He’s already etched his name in Mets history, but now he’s building a legacy that could place him among the franchise’s all-time greats.
If he continues this season at his current pace — batting around .290 with 35+ home runs and 100+ RBIs — he’ll further solidify his standing as one of the premier hitters of his generation.
And it won’t just be the numbers. It will be the consistency, the leadership, and the ability to rise when his team needs him most.
Conclusion: A Star Still Shining
Thursday’s performance against the Braves wasn’t just a nice stat line — it was a signal. A sign that Pete Alonso is still very much a force to be reckoned with. While the home run pace has slowed in recent weeks, the foundation of his game is solid and trending in the right direction.
Alonso doesn’t have to swing for the fences every night to be valuable. His current form — contact-oriented, patient, and situationally aware — might be the most dangerous version of himself yet.
With the season at its midpoint, Alonso is positioned to have another massive second half. If he continues his steady output and catches a hot streak, don’t be surprised to see his name mentioned in MVP conversations by year’s end.
Post Comment