In a defining moment for the New York Mets, slugger Pete Alonso has etched his name alongside franchise legend Darryl Strawberry by hitting his 252nd career home run, tying the Mets’ all-time record. This achievement underscores Alonso’s pivotal role in Mets history and highlights the team’s enduring legacy of power hitters.
The Record-Tying Blast: A Historic Night for the Mets
On August 9, 2025, during a road game against the Milwaukee Brewers at American Family Field, Pete Alonso launched a solo home run in the second inning off starter Tobias Myers. The 413-foot shot to left-center field on a 1-2 fastball gave the Mets an early 1-0 lead, marking Alonso’s 26th homer of the season and his fourth in the last eight games. Despite the Mets’ efforts, the Brewers rallied to win 7-4, with defensive errors and bullpen struggles contributing to New York’s sixth loss in seven games.
This milestone came just a week after Alonso hit his 250th career homer on August 2 against the San Francisco Giants—a 427-foot three-run blast that helped propel the Mets to a 12-6 victory and snapped a four-game losing streak. Alonso’s rapid ascent to the record, achieved in 963 games compared to Strawberry’s 1,109, showcases his consistency and durability, including a Mets record of 370 consecutive games played.
Pete Alonso’s Journey: From Rookie Phenom to Mets Icon
Pete Alonso’s path to Mets stardom began in 2019 when he burst onto the scene as the NL Rookie of the Year, smashing a major league rookie record 53 home runs and setting the Mets’ single-season mark. Over seven seasons, the 30-year-old first baseman has been a cornerstone for the Mets, earning five All-Star selections and winning the Home Run Derby twice (2019 and 2021).
After becoming a free agent post-2024, Alonso re-signed with the Mets on a two-year, $54 million deal with an opt-out after 2025, motivated in part by the chance to chase Strawberry’s record. His power has been instrumental in key Mets moments, including a dramatic three-run homer in Game 3 of the 2024 NL Wild Card Series against the Brewers, which propelled the Mets forward in the playoffs.
Historical Context: Mets Home Run Legacy and Comparisons
The Mets’ franchise home run record of 252 is modest compared to other MLB teams, with only the Diamondbacks and Padres having lower totals. Strawberry set the mark over eight seasons from 1983-1990, a era defined by the Mets’ pitching prowess and the 1986 World Series title. Other Mets greats like David Wright (242 HRs) and Mike Piazza fell short due to injuries or shorter tenures.
Alonso’s feat places him among elite company, akin to Manny Machado and Mike Trout leading their franchises in homers. Strawberry himself cheered Alonso’s pursuit, stating in June that he was “happy” for the current Mets star to claim the record after overcoming challenges.
Pete Alonso’s Top Home Runs: Memorable Moments in Mets Lore
Throughout his Mets career, Alonso has delivered unforgettable blasts. Here are some highlights:
- First Career HR (April 1, 2019 vs. Marlins): A go-ahead three-run shot in the ninth inning for a 6-5 Mets win, announcing his arrival.
- Longest HR (July 17, 2019 vs. Twins): A mammoth 489-foot bomb to the third deck at Target Field, the farthest of his career.
- Walk-Off vs. Yankees (Sept. 3, 2020): His first walk-off, a two-run homer in extra innings during the Subway Series.
- Grand Slam (April 9, 2022 vs. Nationals): His first “granny” with a slick bat flip, amid early-season drama.
- Postseason Heroics (Oct. 3, 2024 vs. Brewers): A go-ahead three-run homer in the ninth to clinch the Wild Card Series.
These moments not only boosted Mets wins but also cemented Alonso’s status as a fan favorite.
Impact on the 2025 Mets Season and Future Outlook
With the Mets at 63-53 entering August 10, Alonso’s milestone could spark a late-season surge in the competitive NL East. His .253 average, 26 homers, and 43 RBIs this year reflect a rebound from an early slump, aligning with the Mets’ offensive firepower alongside Francisco Lindor and Brandon Nimmo.
As Alonso eyes free agency after 2025, breaking the record outright could solidify his long-term future with the Mets. For now, this tie reaffirms his commitment: “I just want to help the team win.” Mets fans eagerly await the next homer that could make Alonso the undisputed king of Queens.