Juan Soto Praises the Polar Bear’s Elite Power Hitting Pete Alonso is Leading the Mets to Success This Season

The 2025 MLB season is in full swing, and few players have drawn as much attention as Pete Alonso, the New York Mets’ powerhouse first baseman. Known as “The Polar Bear,” Alonso is not only smashing home runs and setting records—he’s also earning praise from elite hitters across the league. Most recently, Juan Soto, one of baseball’s most feared sluggers, took a moment to recognize Alonso’s outstanding power and consistency at the plate.

Soto’s words weren’t just hollow compliments. In a league filled with talented bats, to be recognized by someone of Soto’s caliber is a testament to Alonso’s elite performance and rising influence. As the Mets continue their strong run in the 2025 season, Alonso’s leadership, both in the clubhouse and at the plate, has become a key factor in their resurgence.

So, what makes Pete Alonso’s power so special? Why is Juan Soto acknowledging it now? And can Alonso be the driving force behind a long-awaited playoff run in New York?

Let’s explore all of that and more.

Pete Alonso elite power hitting defines the 2025 season

Pete Alonso has never been a stranger to power. From his record-setting rookie year in 2019 when he hit 53 home runs, to his continued dominance at first base, Alonso has consistently ranked among the league leaders in long balls and RBIs. But in 2025, his game has evolved into something even more dangerous: consistent, smart power hitting.

Through the first few weeks of the season, Alonso has already smashed double-digit home runs and ranks near the top of the National League in both slugging percentage and OPS. His approach at the plate has matured—he’s more selective, more composed, and more confident in big moments.

What stands out this season isn’t just how far he hits the ball, but how frequently and efficiently he does it. Pitchers are finding it increasingly difficult to challenge him, and opposing managers have started shifting defensive alignments to try and counter his dominance. Still, Alonso continues to deliver.

In a recent post-game interview, Juan Soto said, “Pete is one of the strongest hitters in the league. What he’s doing right now is elite. He doesn’t just swing for the fences—he has a plan at the plate, and you can see it’s working.”

When a hitter like Soto, who boasts one of the highest on-base percentages in the game, gives props to your approach, it means you’ve entered rare territory.

New York Mets offensive leader in every category

It’s not just Alonso’s home run count that has Mets fans excited. It’s his overall impact on the team’s offensive production. He currently leads the Mets in batting average, home runs, RBIs, and total bases. More importantly, he’s showing up in clutch moments—late-inning rallies, bases-loaded situations, and critical division games.

This consistency has helped the Mets climb into a top-three offensive ranking in the National League. With key players like Francisco Lindor, Brandon Nimmo, and Starling Marte supporting him in the lineup, Alonso’s presence has had a ripple effect. He’s making everyone around him better.

Pitchers can no longer pitch around him easily, thanks to the improved lineup depth. And when they do challenge him, he’s ready.

Even Mets manager Carlos Mendoza weighed in, saying, “Pete is the heart of this lineup. The guys feed off his energy and leadership. When he’s locked in, the entire team believes we can beat anybody.”

Alonso’s energy is contagious. Whether it’s his post-home run celebrations or dugout leadership, he’s become more than just a slugger—he’s the pulse of the Mets’ identity in 2025.

Juan Soto praise for Pete Alonso speaks volumes

Juan Soto and Pete Alonso may play in different leagues, but they share a mutual respect as two of the most dominant hitters in the game. Soto’s praise is especially notable because it comes at a time when league-wide respect for Alonso is peaking.

“I watch all the big hitters,” Soto said. “Guys like Judge, Freeman, Alonso—they make the game exciting. Pete’s power is different. He’s strong, but he’s also smart. He adjusts to pitches and doesn’t try to do too much.”

That kind of recognition doesn’t come lightly. Soto is known for his keen eye and deep understanding of the strike zone. For him to admire Alonso’s discipline and adjustment skills speaks volumes about how much the Mets star has grown as a hitter.

Soto’s admiration also highlights Alonso’s reputation beyond New York. He’s not just a fan favorite at Citi Field—he’s respected across MLB clubhouses as one of the premier sluggers of this generation.

Mets are contenders again, and Alonso is the reason

Coming into 2025, many analysts were skeptical of the Mets. After a disappointing 2024 campaign, changes were made both in the dugout and the front office. But rather than rebuild, the team doubled down on its core and put more responsibility on veterans like Alonso to guide the ship.

And he’s delivered.

The Mets are currently in playoff position and hold one of the best home records in the league. Alonso has been instrumental in nearly every series win this season. Whether it’s walk-off hits, defensive plays at first, or rally-starting doubles, he’s done it all.

His offensive explosion has also revived the Mets fanbase. Citi Field is once again buzzing, and Mets merchandise sales have soared—led, of course, by Alonso jerseys.

There’s a new energy in Queens, and Pete Alonso is the catalyst.

The MVP conversation is heating up

With every home run and multi-hit game, Pete Alonso is climbing higher on the MVP candidate list. If he continues this pace, it will be hard to ignore his case. He’s not just a statistical standout—he’s a leader of a playoff-caliber team in the biggest media market in the world.

In addition to his batting stats, Alonso’s WAR (Wins Above Replacement) is among the best for first basemen. He’s become a complete player and is making a case not only for MVP honors but also for a long-term legacy in Mets history.

If the Mets make a deep playoff run, Alonso could find himself in the same conversation as legendary New York sluggers like Mike Piazza and David Wright. He’s already broken multiple franchise records, and with every game, he moves closer to becoming an all-time great.

What’s next for Alonso and the Mets?

The season is still young, but the road ahead looks promising. The Mets have a manageable schedule over the next few weeks, with key series against division rivals that could help them gain momentum. Alonso will be expected to keep producing, but all signs suggest he’s more than ready.

He’s stayed healthy, improved his defense, and adjusted his offensive approach to fit the team’s strategy. Now, it’s about staying consistent and leading the team into October baseball.

With Soto’s endorsement and the Mets’ renewed spirit, Alonso finds himself at the center of a perfect storm—high performance, high expectations, and high praise from his peers.

Final thoughts

Pete Alonso has always been a fan favorite in New York, but in 2025, he’s becoming something even greater—a symbol of hope, resilience, and excellence. With elite power hitting, an evolving approach at the plate, and recognition from stars like Juan Soto, Alonso is elevating both his career and his team’s future.

As long as “The Polar Bear” continues to deliver, the Mets will remain a legitimate threat in the National League. This isn’t just a hot start—it’s the next chapter in what could become a storybook season for both Pete Alonso and the New York Mets.