New York Mets slugger Pete Alonso has decided not to take part in the 2025 Home Run Derby, focusing instead on resting and preparing for the critical second half of the season. This announcement comes before the event scheduled for July 14 at Truist Park in Atlanta.
This marks the first time Alonso, a two-time Derby champion, will sit out since making five all-star appearances. His decision reflects a priority to help the Mets make a strong playoff push in the highly competitive NL East division.
Alonso’s Reflection on His Decision and Career
Following the Mets’ 6-4 loss to the New York Yankees, Alonso shared his reasons for skipping the Derby.
“I’ve never really fully enjoyed the three off days,”
he said.
“I just want to be in the best possible position to help this team win in the second half.”
The 30-year-old slugger added that this choice is not permanent.
“I feel like I’m in a groove with certain things … I definitely will do it again, it doesn’t mean no forever,”
Alonso remarked.
Alonso signed a two-year, $54 million contract with the Mets in February, including an opt-out clause after this season, ensuring his stay in Queens after a busy offseason.
Alonso’s Legacy and Mets’ All-Star Representation
Throughout his four previous Derby appearances, Alonso has posted impressive numbers, hitting 208 home runs and setting a record for the most homers in a single round with 35 in 2019. Despite his strong performances, last year he was eliminated in the first round, unable to join Ken Griffey Jr. as the only three-time Derby champion.
This year, Alonso joins teammates Francisco Lindor and Edwin Diaz as Mets representatives at the Midsummer Classic. The team currently trails the Philadelphia Phillies by just 1.5 games in the NL East, intensifying the importance of Alonso’s decision to rest in preparation for the second half.
Event Details and Context for the Derby and All-Star Game
The 2025 Home Run Derby will begin at 8 p.m. ET on July 14, followed by the All-Star Game at the same time on July 15. Both events will take place at Truist Park in Atlanta, hosting baseball’s top talent in a showcase of the season’s brightest stars.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why do they call Pete Alonso a Polar Bear?
A. Alonso was called “\x26quot;Polar Bear\x26quot;” early in his career as a promising player. During 2019’s spring training, he stood out so much that Mets third baseman Todd Frazier, famous for creating nicknames, gave him this one. Frazier thought Alonso resembled a “big, damn polar bear.”