New York Mets slugger Pete Alonso Home Run Derby, ending his streak of five consecutive appearances, following a first-round loss to Teoscar Hernández 23-12 in the 2024 Home Run Derby at Globe Life Field.
Announced on July 6, 2025, Alonso’s decision, made to focus on the Mets’ playoff push, has sparked buzz about his future in the event.
A Surprising Step Back
The Pete Alonso Home Run Derby narrative took a turn when the two-time champion declined to compete in Atlanta at Truist Park on July 14, 2025.
After hitting just 12 homers in last year’s first round, Alonso cited the need for rest, saying, “I want to be in the best position to help this team win,” per ESPN.
His fifth All-Star selection ensures he’ll attend the 2025 All-Star Game with teammates Francisco Lindor and Edwin Díaz.
Fans on X expressed disappointment, with one post noting, “No Pete Alonso Home Run Derby this year? Heartbreaking,” per X post. Alonso left the door open for a return, adding, “It doesn’t mean forever,” per The Athletic.
A Storied Derby Legacy
Pete Alonso’s Home Run Derby history is unmatched, with 208 career Derby homers, the most all-time, including a record 35 in a single round in 2019, per Sportsnet.
He won as a rookie in 2019 at Progressive Field and again in 2021 at Coors Field, falling short of Ken Griffey Jr.’s three titles. His 2024 exit, with the second-fewest homers among competitors, stung after two straight first-round losses.
Alonso’s power remains evident, with 20 homers and 73 RBI in 91 games in 2025, batting .287 with a .928 OPS, per FanDuel.
Focus on the Mets’ Playoff Push
The Pete Alonso Home Run Derby decision aligns with his goal to lead the Mets, who trail the Philadelphia Phillies by 1.5 games in the NL East, per Sportsnet.
A two-homer game in a 12-6 win over the New York Yankees on July 5, 2025, brought him to 246 career homers, six shy of Darryl Strawberry’s franchise record, per Yahoo Sports.
“I’m in a groove,” Alonso said, prioritizing the season’s second half over the Derby’s adrenaline spikes, per northjersey.com. His .400 average over his last three games underscores his focus.
Key Stats from Alonso’s 2025 Season
- Home Runs: 20, with 73 RBI in 91 games
- Batting Average: .287, with .928 OPS
- Career Derby Homers: 208, most all-time
- All-Star Selections: 5, including 2025
- Franchise HR Rank: 246, six behind Strawberry
Expert Insight: A Strategic Pause
MLB analyst Anthony DiComo from MLB.com noted, “The Pete Alonso Home Run Derby absence is a smart move.
At 30, he’s prioritizing the Mets’ playoff chances over a taxing event, preserving his swing for a critical stretch.” This Pete Alonso Home Run Derby choice reflects a shift toward team goals, per MLB.com.
The 2025 Derby Field
With Alonso out, the 2025 Home Run Derby features Cal Raleigh (35 homers), Ronald Acuña Jr. (9 homers post-ACL recovery), and James Wood (23 homers), per CBS Sports.
Raleigh, the MLB home run leader, aims to shine in Atlanta, his childhood baseball hub, saying, “It’s extra special,” per CBS Sports. Kyle Schwarber also declined, per ESPN.
Contract and Future Implications
Alonso’s Pete Alonso Home Run Derby absence coincides with his $20.5 million contract year, making him a free agent after 2025, per Marca. His recent surge, including a 1.100 slugging percentage over three games, strengthens his market value, per FanDuel. Alonso hinted at returning to the Derby at Citi Field or Fenway Park, per EssentiallySports.
Final Thoughts: Pete Alonso Home Run Derby
Pete Alonso’s Home Run Derby absence in 2025 marks a pivotal moment for the Mets star. Choosing rest over competition, Alonso eyes a strong second half to chase Strawberry’s record and a postseason berth.
His 208 Derby homers and two titles cement his legacy, but the Pete Alonso Home Run Derby buzz persists—will he return to claim a third crown? Comment your thoughts below.
Two-time Home Run Derby champ Pete Alonso and fellow All-Star Kyle Schwarber both declined invites to the 2025 event in Atlanta, citing rest and focus on the second half. Only three participants are confirmed so far: Cal Raleigh, James Wood, and Ronald Acuña Jr. (Reuters) pic.twitter.com/6ViYW8ZK3q
— NTC Feed (@NTC_Feed) July 7, 2025
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