Pete Alonso Shines in Spring Training Debut with Baltimore Orioles

Pete Alonso made a notable entrance into his new role as a first baseman for the Baltimore Orioles during their spring training opener against the New York Yankees on February 20, 2026. In his third plate appearance, Alonso hit a two-run home run off right-hander Bradley Hanner, leading the Orioles to a 2-0 victory. This performance marked Alonso's first game with the Orioles after signing a five-year, $155 million contract in December 2025, ending his seven-year tenure with the New York Mets.

New York PostWatch Yankees outfielder rob Pete Alonso of 1st Orioles hit with spectacular catchPete Alonso News: Goes yard in spring debutNewsdayPete Alonso hits first Orioles HR after former NY Mets prospect robbed him of a hitOrioles’ Pete Alonso absolutely crushes home run in Baltimore spring training debutAssociated PressDeadspinPete Alonso’s first spring training game shows the full spectrum of his impact

The game took place at Ed Smith Stadium in Sarasota, Florida, a location significant to Alonso, who grew up nearby. His parents attended the game, and he reflected on his childhood memories of playing at the Cal Ripken baseball fields across the street. “It’s really special,” Alonso remarked, emphasizing the nostalgia of returning to his roots.

Pete Alonso’s first spring training game shows the full spectrum of his impact

First-year manager Craig Albernaz praised Alonso's desire to contribute, stating, “Pete wanted it, and he made the most of it.” Alonso's eagerness to stay in the game for an extra inning to secure another at-bat demonstrates his commitment to the team. His presence is expected to bolster the Orioles' lineup, which struggled in the previous season.

Pete Alonso’s first spring training game shows the full spectrum of his impact

Alonso's transition to the Orioles means he will face the Yankees more frequently, a rivalry he is eager to embrace. He expressed excitement about playing at Yankee Stadium, noting, “It’s always fun because Yankee Stadium, it’s a really great place to play.” Yankees manager Aaron Boone acknowledged Alonso's past impact against the Yankees, stating, “He’s a huge presence in a lineup,” highlighting the challenge he poses for opposing teams.

New York Post

Alonso expressed his enthusiasm for his new team, stating, “I feel honored to wear (this uniform). I feel great in it, I feel like I look good in it.” His performance in the spring training opener, including the home run, has set a positive tone for the season ahead. The Orioles are looking to improve upon their 75-87 record from the previous year, and Alonso's addition is seen as a key factor in their potential resurgence.

Associated Press

While Alonso's debut was celebrated, some analysts caution that spring training performances can be misleading. The Yankees, who struggled offensively in the game, managed only three hits and may need to adjust their strategy to counter Alonso's power in the upcoming regular season.

Pete Alonso News: Goes yard in spring debut

• “Obviously, hitting homers feels amazing, doesn’t matter what time of year. Happy to break the seal,” — Pete Alonso, First Baseman, Baltimore Orioles

Associated Press

• “He’s gotten some big hits against us, some big homers against us.” — Aaron Boone, Manager, New York Yankees

New York Post

• “It’s going to be really exciting going to war with this team that we got here.” — Pete Alonso, First Baseman, Baltimore Orioles

New York Post

As the Orioles prepare for the 2026 season, Alonso's performance in spring training will be closely monitored, with fans and analysts alike eager to see how he will influence the team's success in the competitive AL East.

Watch Yankees outfielder rob Pete Alonso of 1st Orioles hit with spectacular catch