Pete Alonso Breaks Mets’ HR Record with 253rd Homer Tonight
BREAKING: Mets slugger Pete Alonso has just made history by smashing his 253rd career home run on September 26, 2023, breaking a record that stood for 37 years. The monumental hit came against the Atlanta Braves at Citi Field, securing Alonso’s place as the franchise’s new home run king.
In a thrilling moment during the third inning, the 30-year-old Alonso blasted a 95.1 mph fastball from Braves pitcher Spencer Strider over the right-center wall for a two-run homer, putting the Mets ahead 5-1. But he wasn’t finished; in the sixth inning, he added a solo shot, extending the Mets’ lead to 11-5.
The atmosphere was electric as Alonso’s historic achievement was celebrated by a near-sellout crowd, including Mets owner Steve Cohen. The Mets honored Alonso with a scoreboard graphic displaying the number 253, alongside images of Alonso and polar bears, a nod to his nickname. Teammates Brandon Nimmo and Jeff McNeil joined him in the celebration, embracing him as chants of his name echoed through the stadium.
As the game progressed, the Mets played the theme from “The Natural,” with Alonso taking another bow in front of the enthusiastic crowd. The emotional evening was capped off with a heartfelt congratulatory message from former record-holder Darryl Strawberry, who stated,
“Congratulations on breaking the home run record. You have worked hard, and it is well-deserved.”
Alonso tied Strawberry’s record on September 23, 2023, hitting his 252nd homer against the Milwaukee Brewers. Since entering the league in 2019, where he set a major league rookie record of 53 home runs, Alonso has been a consistent force, achieving this milestone in just 965 regular-season games. His durability stands out as he has played 372 consecutive games, a Mets record.
The Mets’ historic moment also highlights their place in MLB history, as they join the ranks of teams struggling to find home run leaders, with only the Arizona Diamondbacks and San Diego Padres without a player surpassing 252 home runs. The Diamondbacks’ record is held by Luis Gonzalez with 224 homers, while Manny Machado leads the Padres with 187.
As Alonso continues his impressive career, he remains a fan favorite and a symbol of hope for the Mets. With a two-year, $54 million contract that includes a player option for $24 million in 2026, fans are eager to see what else this powerhouse slugger will accomplish.
Stay tuned for further updates as the Mets celebrate this historic achievement and look towards the playoffs.
