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Radio host Joe Benigno is surprised with Pete Alonso's statement that he's had a "good" season. The New York Mets moved star first baseman Alonso to the fifth spot in their lineup. The team has been performing well since June but struggled last week, losing two of three games against the Los Angeles Angels.
The Mets had opportunities to win those games but couldn’t capitalize on key moments, largely due to Pete Alonso's struggles with hitting in crucial situations throughout the series.
Following his performance, New York Mets manager Carlos Mendoza shifted him to the middle lineup. It was the lowest position in the lineup that Pete Alonso had hit since 2020.
Before the Mets' 6-0 victory on Monday, Alonso was asked about his disappointing season. He defended his performance with a response that many found questionable.
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"I'm on pace for close to 40 homers. I was an All-Star this year, to beat myself up or be frustrated - it's really no use. I'm really excited for the end of the year where we get to play winning baseball. I'm happy with what I've accomplished this year so far," he said.
WFAN sports radio host Joe Benigno expressed surprise with Pete Alonso’s response:
“Is he kidding? He hasn’t had a good year. … Pete, who are you kidding? He’s telling you he’s having a good year. That’s the problem; he’s not.”
While it's possible for Alonso to reach 40 home runs if he returns to his former self, he's on pace for 33.
Pete Alonso opens up about shift to 5th lineup spot
Looking back on his six-year career, the 2024 season hasn't been Alonso's best. He has a batting average of .241, an on-base plus slugging (OPS) of .790, 23 home runs and 69 RBI in 112 games.
Discussing about his shift down to the lineup, Alonso said:
"He (Mendoza) talked to me yesterday on the plane. (Mendoza said he) Just wanted to see what the lineup's like with you at 5, just want to see what we can do with a different look."
"I want to win, and I trust him to run out the best lineup every single day. If that's what he thinks that's going to help us win, I'm all for it."
The New York Mets lost 6-3 to the Colorado Rockies on Tuesday and will play the second game of their three-game series on Wednesday.
