Pete Alonso Reacts to Unexpected Orioles Decision

Speaking to reporters before Friday's game, Alonso embraced the move with his usual sense of humor, saying it was the first time he had ever hit leadoff in his career. He compared himself to Philadelphia Phillies slugger Kyle Schwarber, adding, "First time for everything. Why not? I'm not saying me and him are the same guy, but I'm like Schwarber adjacent, you know? … I can be the right-handed Schwarber, I guess. Why not?"

The move comes as Gunnar Henderson has struggled at the plate over the past two weeks, prompting Baltimore to experiment with a different look atop the lineup. Alonso enters the game leading the Orioles with 26 home runs, 77 RBIs and 117 hits while batting .259 with an .833 OPS.

His recent form likely influenced the decision. Alonso has hit .371 with three home runs over his last 10 games, giving Baltimore confidence that its hottest hitter can set the tone from the first at-bat.

The Orioles are also navigating several injuries. Blaze Alexander remains on the injured list with a fractured left hand while Ryan Helsley and Chris Bassitt continue working toward returns.

Baltimore opens the series at 58-63, trailing in the American League East but still chasing a postseason berth. Friday's lineup adjustment gives Alonso an unfamiliar role as the Orioles look to generate offense during a critical stretch of the season.