Two-time champion, but Pete Alonso decided not to participate in this year’s Home Run Derby – Why?

In what has become one of the most anticipated events of the MLB All-Star festivities, Pete Alonso’s towering home runs have electrified fans at the Home Run Derby. But this year, fans will have to watch the show without the New York Mets’ slugger.

Despite being named to the 2025 National League All-Star team, Alonso confirmed after Sunday’s 6-4 loss to the Yankees that he will not participate in the Derby. Instead, the two-time champion will prioritize rest and preparation for the crucial second half of the Mets’ season.

Alonso Focuses on the Mets’ Postseason Hunt

Speaking candidly at Citi Field, Alonso explained his decision, saying:

“I’ve never really fully enjoyed three off-days. I just want to be in the best possible position to help this team win in the second half.”

For Alonso, the All-Star break presents a rare opportunity for physical and mental recovery, something he feels is essential as the Mets look to climb the standings in a tightly contested National League East.

The Toll of the Home Run Derby

While the Home Run Derby is a celebration of baseball’s most powerful sluggers, it comes with a price. Alonso explained that the grind isn’t just physical but mental:

“It’s not necessarily the work and the swing,” Alonso said. “It’s the adrenaline. You’ve got to be up in compete and game mode.”

Participating in the Derby means maintaining a heightened level of competitiveness during what is meant to be a restful break. For a player like Alonso, whose game revolves around high-energy moments, the event can disrupt the crucial mid-season recharge.

A Champion of the Derby

Alonso has been synonymous with the Home Run Derby since bursting onto the scene in 2019. That year, during his historic rookie campaign, he captured the Derby crown. He repeated the feat in 2021, showcasing his immense power and love for the moment.

He also competed in 2022 and 2023, though he didn’t reclaim the title in those years. Across his four appearances, Alonso became a fan favorite and a central figure in the event’s modern history.

“It’s Not a No Forever” – Alonso Leaves the Door Open

Importantly, Alonso hasn’t ruled out a return to the Derby in future years. The decision to skip it this time around was based on his personal priorities for this season. He mentioned that the venue could influence his future participation:

“It doesn’t mean no forever,” Alonso explained. “If the All-Star Game happens at Citi Field or another park I love to hit at like Fenway [Park] or Wrigley [Field], for sure. But for me, I’m not necessarily called to do it. I love the event. I didn’t feel motivated to do it this year, and I figured I’d take a break and use it as recovery.”

Fans may yet see the “Polar Bear” blasting moonshots in a future Derby, but for 2025, his sights are set squarely on October baseball.

The Mets’ Season: A Second-Half Surge Needed

Alonso’s decision comes at a pivotal time for the New York Mets. The team has struggled with inconsistency, player injuries, and an ultra-competitive NL East race. With stars like Francisco Lindor, Brandon Nimmo, and Kodai Senga battling through ups and downs, the Mets need every key player firing on all cylinders after the break.

Alonso, widely regarded as the heart of the Mets’ offense, leads the team in home runs and RBIs this season. Preserving his health and peak performance is essential if the Mets want to make a serious playoff push.

Kodai Senga Nears a Return to Bolster the Rotation

Good news could be on the horizon for the Mets’ pitching staff. Kodai Senga, the right-handed ace who’s been rehabbing a hamstring strain since June 12, is nearing a return. Following his rehab start for Triple-A Syracuse on Saturday, manager Carlos Mendoza reported that Senga “physically feels fine.”

Mets officials are expected to decide in the next couple of days whether Senga will rejoin the rotation for the second half. His return would provide a much-needed boost to a rotation that’s lacked consistency beyond its top starters.

Jesse Winker Also Close to Rejoining the Lineup

In addition to Senga’s progress, Jesse Winker is also nearing a return. Winker played in his fourth minor league rehab game on Sunday and could rejoin the Mets as early as Tuesday when they face the Orioles in Baltimore.

Winker’s left-handed bat and on-base ability have been missed, and his return could deepen a lineup that needs more consistent production behind Alonso.

How Alonso’s Absence Impacts the Home Run Derby Field

Without Alonso in the mix, the 2025 Home Run Derby field will take on a very different look. Likely favorites include:

• Aaron Judge (Yankees) if he opts in.

• Shohei Ohtani, depending on his availability and injury status.

• Juan Soto, always a fan favorite with his sweet lefty swing.

• Vladimir Guerrero Jr., who has experience in the Derby spotlight.

Alonso’s absence leaves the door open for a new champion—or for one of his rivals to add to their own Derby legacy.

Fan Reactions: Disappointment, But Understanding

The announcement drew mixed reactions across social media. Mets fans and MLB followers expressed both disappointment and support:

• Some lamented the absence of the Derby’s biggest showman.

• Others praised Alonso for prioritizing his team’s success over personal accolades.

• A segment of fans urged him to return to the Derby in 2026 when it’s rumored Citi Field may host the All-Star festivities.

Ultimately, most recognized Alonso’s dedication to the Mets’ playoff ambitions.

Manager Carlos Mendoza Supports Alonso’s Decision

First-year Mets manager Carlos Mendoza backed Alonso’s decision, emphasizing the importance of managing player workloads over a grueling 162-game season:

“We respect Pete’s decision. He’s given so much to this team and this game. If he feels this is best for him and the team, we’re 100% behind him,” Mendoza told reporters postgame.

With Mendoza leading a team still searching for its rhythm, having a rested and refocused Alonso for the stretch run is a welcome development.

What’s Next for the Mets After the Break?

The Mets face a critical stretch of games immediately following the All-Star break. Key matchups against division rivals like the Braves and Phillies could determine whether the team enters September as contenders or pretenders.

Offensively, the Mets will rely on Alonso, Lindor, and Nimmo to carry the load, while the pitching staff looks to find consistency behind Senga’s expected return.

Alonso’s Legacy in the Home Run Derby

Regardless of whether he participates again, Pete Alonso’s impact on the Home Run Derby is secure. His rookie triumph in 2019 captured the imagination of baseball fans, and his repeat performance in 2021 cemented his status as one of the event’s greatest competitors.

Alonso’s preparation, focus, and sheer power set a new standard for Derby excellence. Even in his absence, his legacy will loom large over the 2025 competition.

Final Thoughts: A Rested Polar Bear Could Spell Trouble for Opponents

While some fans may miss seeing Pete Alonso launch homers into the summer night sky, the Mets and their supporters will be hoping the break recharges his batteries for a monster second half.

With a playoff race heating up and the Mets battling for positioning, Alonso’s decision reflects maturity, leadership, and a deep commitment to team success.

If a refreshed Alonso returns post-break with his usual power stroke intact, the decision to skip the Derby might just be the key to salvaging the Mets’ 2025 season.