Pete Alonso launched the 300th home run of his career against the New York Mets on Tuesday night at Citi Field, driving a ninth-inning game-tying solo shot for the Baltimore Orioles before a stunned and divided crowd.
When Pete Alonso stepped back into the batter’s box at Citi Field this week, he wasn’t just returning to the place where he hit 264 of his home runs and earned the 2019 NL Rookie of the Year award. He was walking directly into a pressure cooker of fan resentment, front-office frustration, and a lost Mets season that officially hit rock bottom.
Milestone Blast Burns the Mets and Sparks a Curtain Call
With the Baltimore Orioles trailing by a run in the top of the ninth inning on Tuesday night, Alonso connected off closer Kodai Senga, sending the 300th home run of his career deep into the Citi Field bleachers to tie the game at 5-5. The blast helped propel the Orioles to a 7-5 victory in 11 innings.
Photo: newsweek.com
Rather than groaning at the damage inflicted by an opponent, the hometown crowd erupted in celebration, treating the opposing slugger to a spirited curtain call. It was a surreal sight: Mets fans cheering wildly as a player wearing an Orioles uniform rounded the bases.
Alonso acknowledged the emotional reception after the game, telling reporters, I appreciate all the support for all the years I’ve been here, all the life I’ve lived here. Obviously, they’re recognizing that and they appreciate that. It’s a two-way street. Really appreciate it.
Mets Pitchers and Players Express Frustration Over Fan Reaction
While fans in Queens were busy celebrating their former superstar, the current Mets clubhouse was left bewildered. Starting pitcher Sean Manaea, who delivered 5.1 innings of two-run ball on Tuesday, did not hide his displeasure with the stadium’s atmosphere.
“As the 2026 Mets, I know we have definitely underperformed. But we are—the guys in here work their ass off every single day, and to have that kind of reaction to an opposing player, could be anybody, is crazy to me.”
Photo: foxnews.com
Sean Manaea, starting pitcher, via Fox News
Manaea added: Pete’s not here. He’s just not here. So I know everybody loves him. He’s the man. But yeah, he’s not here. So to see the reaction from the fans like that, I don’t know, it’s just different.
The disconnect ran deeper than just one game. Star shortstop Francisco Lindor voiced similar frustrations after Monday night’s series opener. Lindor pointed out that fans cheered for Alonso in his first game back in Queens, while he didn’t think those fans applauded rookie pitcher Jonah Tong enough.
Anger at David Stearns and the Fallout of Free Agency
The adulation for Alonso was fundamentally tied to frustration with the front office. After playing the first seven seasons of his career in New York, Alonso hit free agency last winter and signed a five-year, $155 million contract with Baltimore. Meanwhile, the Mets struggled through a dismal campaign, sinking to the bottom of the National League East and getting mathematically eliminated from postseason contention on Monday evening.
As Alonso rounded the bases on Tuesday, chants of Fire David Stearns echoed through the stands. Fans directed their fury at the president of baseball operations for letting the franchise’s leading home-run hitter walk, especially while the team’s patchwork first-base production lagged behind.
Souvenirs and Goodwill Outside the Clubhouse
Away from the friction on the field, Alonso made sure the fans who caught his historic 300th home run ball walked away with lifelong memories. After Baltimore’s win, Alonso greeted the three Mets fans outside the visiting clubhouse with handshakes, hugs, and personalized gear.
Mets Fans Welcome Pete Alonso Back With A LOUD Standing Ovation In Return
The slugger signed their jerseys—two of which bore his name and number—and added the inscription 300th HR game. He then ducked into the clubhouse and returned with three brand-new bats, offering to write any personalized message the fans desired. Not stopping there, Alonso reappeared with beers and extended an open invitation for future visits.
From Instagram — related to pete alonso hits 300th, Pete Alonso Mets fans
“You guys rock. Honestly, any time you guys want to come down to [Oriole Park at Camden Yards] … you guys want tickets, batting practice passes, whole nine yards — on me. Thank you.”
Pete Alonso, Baltimore Orioles first baseman, via MLB.com
With the Orioles fighting to secure a spot in the American League Wild Card race, Alonso’s powerful bat continues to drive Baltimore forward behind 36 home runs and an AL-leading 101 RBIs. For Queens, however, his triumphant return served as a painful reminder of a winter decision that continues to haunt the franchise.
