Pete Alonso: A return to Citi Field and the fans’ support after the Orioles deal

For the first time since signing with the Baltimore Orioles in December, Pete Alonso returned to Citi Field to face the New York Mets. Before Monday’s game, he spoke about the feeling of being back in the stadium he once called home, greeted the fans and exchanged a few words with Mets owner Steve Cohen; before his first at-bat he also tipped his cap to the crowd as a sign of respect.

According to Bleacher Report, Alonso was drafted by the Mets in the 2016 draft and debuted in the majors in 2019, becoming the team’s pillar for more than half a decade: a five-time All-Star, selected N/L Rookie of the Year and part of the 2019 All-MLB First Team. After seven seasons with New York, he signed a five-year, $155 million deal with the Orioles in December, while the Mets reportedly did not offer him an extension because of offers from other teams that were much higher for that position.

Alonso said he holds no grudge against his former organization and explained that when it comes to business negotiations, he has to listen to the offers that come seriously. He mentioned that Baltimore showed strong interest, that he feels very comfortable there and hopes to finish his career as an Oriole, expressing gratitude for the opportunity.

In his first season with the Orioles he has hit 35 home runs and 100 RBIs, with a .269/.363/.499 slash, but the team sits at the bottom of the East Division with a 72-78 record and is unlikely to qualify for the playoffs. Alonso is expected to chase a series win against his former team, and fans welcomed him with support during his return to Citi Field, as Bleacher Report reports.