Pete Alonso Sets MLB Record, Mets Throw Rare Celebration

The second half of the 2025 season hasn’t gone exactly as the New York Mets had hoped, but Pete Alonso’s milestone as the franchise’s all-time leading home run hitter provided a welcome reprieve from recent struggles. Alonso’s achievement earlier this week allowed the team and fans to pause and celebrate a historic moment amid a challenging campaign.

While some voices, like Chris “Mad Dog” Russo, questioned the hype surrounding the record, the Mets organization and its players ensured that Alonso received the recognition he deserved. Gary Cohen’s enthusiastic play-by-play call during the record-breaking home run highlighted the significance of the moment, even if not everyone appreciated it.

In the Mets clubhouse and during a pregame celebration on Thursday night, teammates and staff paid tribute to Alonso’s incredible accomplishment, marking his surpassing of four-time World Series champion Darryl Strawberry. Brandon Nimmo, Alonso’s longest-tenured teammate, emphasized the importance of celebrating such achievements despite the team’s recent struggles.

“Definitely important [to celebrate],” Nimmo told The Post. “I mean, anytime somebody accomplishes something like that you want to celebrate it because it’s taken a lot of years of hard work to get to that point. Obviously, with him accomplishing this feat of breaking the home run record, you want to celebrate that and make sure it’s as special as it can possibly be for him.”

A Moment Delayed but Not Forgotten

Rain delayed the ceremony on Wednesday night, but the Mets made certain Alonso had his moment in the spotlight. Radio broadcaster Howie Rose delivered a heartfelt speech, highlighting Alonso’s 53 first-year home runs and notable postseason contributions. A special video tribute, narrated by Darryl Strawberry himself, played on the stadium’s jumbotron, prompting fans to rise in a standing ovation for the 30-year-old slugger.

When Rose asked Alonso what continuing his career with the Mets would mean, the crowd’s roar drowned out his response — a testament to the affection and admiration the fans have for their star first baseman.

“He’s someone who does it on an everyday basis and makes it look easy,” Nimmo said. His words captured the essence of Alonso’s impact not just as a hitter but as a leader and consistent performer within the clubhouse.

Alonso’s Record and Career Outlook

Alonso’s achievement was more than just personal glory. Entering the game, he had been tied with Kyle Schwarber at 254 career home runs for the second-most in the majors since 2019. The milestone highlights not only his power but also his consistency over multiple seasons.

Alonso currently holds a player option for $24 million in 2026, which he is expected to decline, making him a free agent for the second consecutive year. Unlike last offseason, the Mets will not be able to extend a qualifying offer if he decides to test the market again, meaning his next contract will likely be a high-stakes negotiation between him and interested teams.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future, Alonso’s on-field performance continues to impress. Nimmo praised Alonso’s all-around hitting ability, noting that he has contributed not just through home runs but also through consistent run production. “He’s been a very good hitter all-around, too, not just power,” Nimmo said. “He’s driven in almost 100 runs already. Obviously, his OPS is in a great position, close to that .900. To be able to do that in Citi Field has been amazing.”

Evolution of a Superstar

Alonso’s journey with the Mets has been marked by continuous improvement and adaptation. Nimmo reflected on the slugger’s growth since 2019, emphasizing the adjustments Alonso has made year after year to maintain elite performance levels.

“I’ve just seen him continue to make adjustments year after year,” Nimmo said. “To the point where I feel like this year is the best I’ve ever seen him. Since 2019, obviously, 2019 was amazing. To be able to do what he’s done this year — with everybody knowing the power that he has and everything — he’s been a very consistent hitter.”

This evolution has not only solidified Alonso’s legacy within the Mets organization but has also endeared him to fans across New York. His combination of power, consistency, and professionalism makes him a player whose impact extends far beyond the stat sheet.

A Celebration for the Ages

The Mets’ decision to celebrate Alonso’s milestone with a special pregame ceremony, video tribute, and heartfelt speeches underscores the organization’s recognition of his contributions. The team’s efforts ensured that, even amid a difficult stretch of games, Alonso received the appreciation and acknowledgment his record-breaking performance deserved.

“It’s been really special for me to watch that evolution,” Nimmo said. “I’m really, really proud of him because to make those adjustments has taken a lot of hard work on his end, and he’s definitely been working to get the most out of himself.”

Alonso’s celebration serves as a reminder of his importance to the team, both as a statistical leader and as a central figure in the Mets’ clubhouse. His ability to deliver in key moments, combined with his dedication to improving each season, sets him apart as one of the franchise’s all-time greats.

Looking Ahead

As Alonso continues his career, all eyes will remain on how he navigates the free-agent market and whether he returns to the Mets or explores opportunities elsewhere. Regardless of his next move, his milestone as the all-time home run leader for the Mets will forever be a defining moment in his career.

For now, the team, the fans, and Alonso himself can savor the achievement, taking a rare moment to celebrate excellence amidst the challenges of a long MLB season. The special ceremony, fan tributes, and heartfelt recognition ensure that Pete Alonso’s legacy is celebrated in a way befitting one of New York’s most beloved sluggers.