Pete Alsonso already has the third-most home runs in MLB. Now, the Mets slugger is in search of his third Home Run Derby championship.
Alonso broke the news to ESPN broadcasters during the Mets’ 8-4 victory over the Giants on Sunday.
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“I’m stoked,” he said. “It’s a really fun event. The field is extremely talented and I think this is going to be a derby that a lot of people are going to remember for a long time.”
Alonso went 2-for-4 in the evening. He drew a bases-loaded walk in the third inning and hit a two-out, two-run home run in the eighth to secure the Mets’ win.
Alonso was placed on the 10-day injured list after being hit on the left wrist by a 96-mph fastball from Charlie Morton earlier this season. He was expected to miss at least a month of baseball but ended up missing just 10 games.
Now, it appears the wrist is all better.
“I thought that the derby wasn’t necessarily the biggest priority when I was coming back from the wrist,” he said. “It was trying to come back and be as productive as I can for my team. If I’m able to play a game, I’m definitely going to be able to take batting practice. So for me the biggest concern was getting back to the team. The derby for me is a happy bonus.”
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So far, five players are confirmed to be participating in the popular All-Star event. Rays outfielder Randy Arozarena and the Dodgers’ Mookie Betts will make their Home Derby debut, while Blue Jays first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and the Mariners’ Julio Rodriguez will return in search of their first crown.
In 76 games this season, Alonso has 26 home runs. His .520 slugging percentage is his best since his rookie season when he posted a .583 slugging. That season, Alonso blasted a record-breaking 53 home runs. He is on pace for 50 home runs this season.
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