“You believed in me and made me better” - Pete Alonso breaks silence in heartfelt farewell to New York

Pete Alonso is no longer a New York Met, as he left the franchise in free agency. The Polar Bear, who is the Mets' home run king and was one of the best performers in 2025, has struck a five-year, $155 million deal with the Baltimore Orioles on Thursday.

Last offseason, Alonso signed a two-year deal with an opt-out in place after the first year. After a great year at the plate, he chose free agency, intending to sign a long-term contract. While negotiations happened between his camp and the Mets, nothing materialized and eventually Alonso went to the American League.

After the signing became official, Alonso posted a farewell message to his New York fans, acknowledging the love shown to him at Citi Field since 2019:

"New York, thank you. These last few years have shaped me in ways I’ll carry for the rest of my life. This city demands your best and I’m proud to look back knowing I gave everything I had into earning the privilege of wearing that jersey."

The first baseman shared his gratitude to "teammates, coaches, trainers, staff, and countless people who helped shape me into the player and man I am today."

"I’m forever grateful for every person who challenged me, supported me and believed in me along the way," he continued. "Thank you for the passion. Thank you for the love. Even the tough love that comes with playing for New York. When it came time for first pitch, thank you for being electric through it all.

"Thank you for getting rowdy every time I stepped up to the plate and made the building shake when the ball found a seat over the wall. Your energy fueled me more than you’ll ever know. You believed in me, and you made me better."

Pete Alonso receives warm reception from Orioles legends

Shortly after the signing, several of the Orioles teammates and former players are already making an effort to help Pete Alonso in this transition. Orioles legendary shortstop Cal Ripken Jr. and pitcher Jim Palmer welcomed Pete Alonso to Camden Yards with a warm message.

“Welcome to Baltimore Pete. I’m glad the Mets passed on giving Pete a 5 year deal,” Palmer tweeted on Wednesday. “272,38, 126 rbi, 309 risp not impressive enough. Now do the O’s move the left field wall in again and call it the Alonso-Ward splash zone… ??”

Meanwhile, Hall of Famer Ripken Jr. welcomed Pete Alonso and is looking forward to meeting him.

“Welcome to Baltimore Pete! Let’s grab some crabs,” Ripken Jr. tweetd on Thursday.

The five-star All-Star and 2019 NL Rookie of the Year is looking forward to inking a new chapter in Baltimore. Meanwhile, the Mets fans will be missing Alonso's presence at Citi Field.

Edited by Krutik Jain