Pete Alonso of the New York Mets recently tied Mike Piazza for third place on the franchise’s all-time home run list, hitting career homer No. 220 in a game against the Diamondbacks. Alonso, who considers Piazza a childhood hero, expressed his gratitude for the accomplishment and his happiness in contributing to the team. Darryl Strawberry holds the franchise record with 252 homers, followed by David Wright at 242. Alonso, who will be a free agent after the season, acknowledged that reaching Strawberry’s record will have to wait for the offseason.
Carlos Mendoza, a coach with the Mets, announced plans to add speed and versatility to the team’s roster by promoting Luisangel Acuna, a player known for his ability to play multiple positions and steal bases. Acuna has 34 stolen bases this season and has shown a strong potential for serving the team well in the upcoming games. Meanwhile, Brandon Nimmo batted cleanup for the second time during the road trip and went 0-for-3 with a walk and a run scored. Despite a recent slump, Nimmo had a solid performance in a previous game against the Diamondbacks.
Alonso shared his thoughts on the franchise’s all-time greats, naming Darryl Strawberry, David Wright, Mike Piazza, Tom Seaver, and Jacob deGrom as his Mets Mount Rushmore. He expressed admiration for these players and the impact they have had on the organization, recognizing their importance to the team’s history and success. Alonso’s focus remains on helping the team win and contribute to their efforts on the field, while also acknowledging the significance of his achievements within the context of Mets history.
As September call-ups approach, the Mets are preparing to add a position player and pitcher to the roster, seeking to enhance the team’s roster with additional talent. Mendoza’s emphasis on speed and versatility hints at a strategic approach to the upcoming games, where the team will face new challenges and opportunities to showcase their depth and potential. The addition of players like Acuna, who bring a diverse skill set and energy to the field, reflects the team’s commitment to building a strong and competitive roster for the remainder of the season.
Alonso’s ties to Piazza and other Mets legends highlight the rich history and tradition of the franchise, showing the continuity between past and present players who have left their mark on the team. As Alonso continues to climb the team’s home run list and make his own impact on the franchise, he carries on the legacy of those who came before him while creating his own place in Mets history. With his focus on team success and personal growth, Alonso embodies the spirit of a competitive and dedicated athlete who strives to make a difference on and off the field.
