Pete Alonso Is Just 2 Home Runs Away from Mets History — Can He Catch Darryl Strawberry?

In the storied history of the New York Mets, there have been many sluggers who captivated fans with their power at the plate. But few have had the kind of immediate and sustained impact that Pete Alonso has delivered since his debut. As the 2025 season reaches its midpoint, Alonso stands on the brink of a major milestone, sitting just two home runs away from surpassing Darryl Strawberry as the franchise’s all-time home run leader. For Mets fans, this isn’t just another stat line to track — it’s a moment that underscores Alonso’s growing legacy and solidifies his place among the most influential players to ever wear the orange and blue.

As the Mets try to stay competitive in a challenging National League East, the question looms large: Can Pete Alonso catch and surpass Darryl Strawberry? And perhaps more importantly, what does this chase for history mean for Alonso’s legacy, the Mets organization, and the trajectory of his career moving forward?

Pete Alonso: From Rookie Sensation to Mets Power Icon

When Pete Alonso burst onto the scene in 2019, the baseball world was quick to take notice. His debut season was nothing short of historic. Not only did he win the National League Rookie of the Year award, but he also shattered the rookie home run record by hitting 53 bombs — a feat that immediately cemented him as one of the most feared power hitters in the game.

Alonso’s nickname, “The Polar Bear,” reflects both his imposing presence and his ability to perform under pressure. Over the past several seasons, he has consistently delivered high-level power production. Even when the Mets have struggled as a team, Alonso’s ability to change the game with one swing has kept fans hopeful. His offensive consistency, paired with his leadership in the clubhouse, has made him a cornerstone of the franchise.

Darryl Strawberry’s Legacy with the Mets

To understand the significance of Alonso’s pursuit, it’s important to appreciate what Darryl Strawberry meant to the Mets. From 1983 to 1990, Strawberry was the face of the franchise. His smooth left-handed swing and effortless power helped him hit 252 home runs during his time in New York, a record that has stood for more than three decades.

Strawberry wasn’t just a home run hitter — he was an icon of his era, leading the Mets to the 1986 World Series championship and becoming a household name in Major League Baseball. His combination of charisma, athleticism, and offensive dominance made him a fan favorite, and even today, his name carries weight in Mets history.

For Alonso to surpass Strawberry isn’t just about breaking a number. It’s about etching his name alongside — and perhaps even above — one of the greatest players to ever wear the Mets uniform.

The Chase for Mets History

Alonso’s current total sits tantalizingly close to Strawberry’s 252 mark. With just two more home runs, Alonso will become the Mets’ all-time leader in long balls, a record that once seemed untouchable.

The weight of this chase is enormous. While Alonso has often downplayed personal accolades, there’s no denying that this milestone carries special meaning. It speaks to his durability, his power, and his unwavering commitment to the franchise.

For the Mets organization, Alonso breaking this record represents a bridge between the glory days of the past and the aspirations of the future. It’s a moment that connects generations of fans — those who grew up watching Strawberry in the ’80s and those who have cheered for Alonso since 2019.

Can Alonso Catch and Surpass Strawberry?

The short answer? Yes. Barring injury or an unforeseen slump, Alonso’s chase for the record is all but inevitable. His track record suggests that hitting three more home runs is a matter of when, not if.

However, surpassing Strawberry is only the beginning. Once Alonso takes sole possession of the record, the question becomes: How high can he climb?

At 30 years old, Alonso still has several prime years left. If he continues at his current pace, it’s not unreasonable to project him surpassing 300 home runs with the Mets — a feat that would put the record out of reach for future sluggers for decades to come.

The Pressure of a Milestone Chase

Chasing history isn’t without its challenges. Every at-bat in the coming weeks will be scrutinized. Every near-miss will draw groans from fans eager to witness history. The mental pressure of such a milestone can weigh heavily on players.

Yet, Alonso has proven time and again that he thrives under pressure. Whether it’s hitting walk-off home runs, dominating the Home Run Derby, or delivering in clutch late-season moments, Alonso has embraced the spotlight. It’s part of what makes him one of the most compelling players in baseball today.

How Alonso Has Evolved as a Hitter

When Alonso first entered the league, critics wondered if his power-hitting approach would make him prone to slumps. Over the years, however, he has adjusted his swing, refined his plate discipline, and become a more complete hitter.

While his primary weapon remains his raw power, Alonso has learned to take what pitchers give him, work counts, and even deliver key singles or doubles when the home run isn’t available. This evolution has made him more dangerous than ever.

As pitchers continue to game-plan against him, Alonso’s ability to adapt will be crucial — not only for this home run chase but for his long-term success in a Mets uniform.

The Significance for Mets Fans

For a franchise that has often lived in the shadow of its crosstown rival, the New York Yankees, moments like this are invaluable. The Mets’ fan base, passionate and resilient, has long awaited a modern-day hero who can rival the legends of the past.

Alonso’s pursuit of Strawberry’s record provides a rallying point. It’s a chance for fans to celebrate their team’s history while looking forward to a brighter future. In many ways, this chase symbolizes the Mets’ broader journey — one of perseverance, resilience, and the belief that better days are ahead.

What Comes Next After the Record?

Once Alonso claims the top spot, his goals won’t stop there. Beyond franchise records, he has the opportunity to chase Hall of Fame-worthy milestones, including the elusive 500-home run club.

If Alonso stays healthy and continues his current production, those achievements are within reach. But for now, the immediate focus remains on etching his name into Mets history — one swing at a time.

A Defining Moment for Alonso and the Mets

In a sport built on numbers and history, some milestones carry a deeper meaning. For Pete Alonso, surpassing Darryl Strawberry isn’t just about adding another record to his résumé. It’s about honoring the legends who came before him while paving the way for his own lasting legacy.

As he steps to the plate in the coming days, every fan at Citi Field will hold their breath, waiting for the moment that history is made. And when that ball finally clears the fence, Pete Alonso won’t just be the Mets’ new home run king — he’ll be a symbol of everything this franchise can achieve when talent meets perseverance.

For now, the countdown continues. Two home runs. One record. A legacy in the making.