Last Updated: June 17th, 2026 by Michael Schatz
Pete Alonso’s time in New York is ending. The Mets have officially moved on which means the “Polar Bear” will be wearing a different jersey come 2025. But saying goodbye doesn’t have to have to hard.
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Alonso’s time with the Mets was filled with unforgettable moments that have cemented his place in team history. From record-breaking home runs to game-winning hits, he’s given fans plenty to cheer about. Let’s take a look at some the best moments from Alonso’s career with the New York Mets.
1) Rookie Home Run Derby Champion: A Night for the Ages
Pete Alonso burst onto the scene in 2019. The Mets defeated Vladimir Guerrero Jr. in a thrilling final round to win the Home Run Derby in Cleveland. Alonso’s power display was jaw-dropping, with many of his homers traveling over 450 feet.
2) Breaking Mike Piazza’s Rookie Home Run Record
Pete Alonso’s 2019 rookie season was one for the history books. He smashed Mike Piazza’s Mets rookie home run record of 26, set way back in 1998. Alonso didn’t just break it – he obliterated it. By season’s end, Pete had cranked an incredible 53 home runs, setting a new MLB rookie record.
3) Smashing the 50-Homer Mark in 2019
The big first baseman crushed his 50th home run on September 20, 2019, against the Reds. This blast put him just two shy of Aaron Judge’s rookie record. Alonso didn’t stop there, finishing the season with 53 homers to set a new rookie mark. Mets fans went wild as their new star powered his way into the record books.
4) First All-Star Appearance: A Proud Fan Moment
Pete Alonso’s first MLB All-Star Game appearance in 2019 was a big deal for Mets fans. The rookie slugger didn’t just show up – he put on a show.
Alonso crushed a two-run single, helping the National League’s cause.
5) MVP of the 2021 All-Star Game: The Power Show
Pete Alonso put on a show at the 2021 MLB All-Star Game. He crushed a two-run homer in the second inning, helping the National League take an early lead. Alonso’s power display earned him the game’s MVP award. The Mets slugger became just the third player in franchise history to win All-Star Game MVP honors.
6) Grand Slam Walk-off Against the Nationals
Pete Alonso had Mets fans jumping for joy on September 17, 2024. With the bases loaded in the bottom of the ninth, he crushed a walk-off grand slam against the Nationals.
This clutch moment broke Alonso out of a hitting slump. He hadn’t homered in his previous 49 at-bats. The dramatic blast not only won the game but also kept the Mets’ playoff hopes alive.
7) Longest Home Run in Mets History: A 489-Foot Blast
Pete Alonso crushed a jaw-dropping 489-foot homer on September 18, 2022, against the Pirates. This mammoth shot sailed over the left-field bleachers at Citi Field, setting a new Mets distance record.
8) Golden Glove Nominee: A Defensive Surprise
Pete Alonso isn’t just known for his powerful bat. In 2022, he surprised fans by being named a Gold Glove Award finalist for first base. This nomination showed how much his fielding had improved since his rookie year. Alonso’s hard work on defense paid off, proving he’s more than just a slugger.
9) Getting Hit by a Pitch and Making it Look Fun
Pete Alonso has a knack for turning painful moments into comedy gold. In a 2021 game, he got plunked by a pitch but shrugged it off with a grin. Instead of getting mad, Alonso playfully flexed his bicep at the pitcher. This light-hearted reaction showed Alonso’s fun-loving personality and ability to keep things positive, even when taking one for the team.
10) Creating the Polar Bear Nickname Craze
Pete Alonso’s “Polar Bear” nickname took off like wildfire among Mets fans. The slugging first baseman embraced the moniker, which perfectly fit his big frame and power-hitting style. Soon, Citi Field was full of fans in polar bear costumes and holding signs with polar bear puns. Alonso leaned into the nickname, even wearing custom cleats with a polar bear design.