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Pete Alonso Sends Clear Message Amid Uncertain Future With Mets
© John Jones-Imagn Images

A 4-3 win over Paul Skenes and the Pittsburgh Pirates might register as another tally in the standings, but for the New York Mets, it was another data point in a growing case for Pete Alonso as the heartbeat of their 2025 campaign—and perhaps, a National League MVP candidate.

With the game tied and pressure thick, Alonso stepped to the plate with a chance to win the game in the bottom of the ninth inning. After Lindor reached on a misplay and Juan Soto lined a single to put runners on the corners, Alonso did what he’s done all season—controlled the zone. On a pitch elevated just enough, he delivered a sac fly that wasn’t dramatic, but decisive. It didn’t need to be more than that. The Mets won.

The game itself wobbled between tightrope pitching and ragged defense. Skenes, the flame-throwing 22-year-old phenom, came as advertised. His line—six innings and just one run—belied the constant pressure the Mets applied.

Alonso's game-winner comes amid growing questions about his future. After re-signing with New York on a deal that includes a 2026 opt-out, Alonso is playing himself into a larger deal. Despite this, Lindor wants him to stay for a while.

"I am so happy he’s here," Lindor told Bob Nightengale of USA Today on Sunday. “He’s one of the best power hitters in the game. Hopefully, he stays with us for awhile."

As for Alonso, he loves being in New York.

"This is a great group, with a great culture and great people," he told USA Today. “I’ve made a lot of great relationships here, with the fans, the coaches, my teammates, the security guards, the clubhouse managers, everything. It’s very special. So that weighed in my decision a lot to come back."

The Mets have their flaws. But they also have Alonso—a player who’s not just locked in, but fully aware of the gravity of each pitch, each at-bat. Even after an 0-for-4 on Tuesday, his 1.008 OPS ranks third in baseball. 

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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