The ‘Polar Bear’ is opting for some well-deserved rest.
New York Mets slugger Pete Alonso announced he won’t be participating in the 2025 Home Run Derby on Sunday.
This will mark the first time in his five all-star appearances that the two-time winner (2019, 2021) will not compete in the event.
“I’ve never really fully enjoyed the three off days,” Alonso said post-game after the Mets’ 6-4 loss to the New York Yankees. “I just want to be in the best possible position to help this team win in the second half.”
The 30-year-old inked a two-year $54-million contract — which included an opt-out after this season — in February to stay in Queens, after months on the open market during the off-season.
“I feel like I’m in a groove with certain things … I definitely will do it again, it doesn’t mean no forever,” Alonso said.
Alonso has mashed 208 homers in his previous four showings, and owns the record for most HRs in a round with 35 in 2019.
Last year, Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Teoscar Hernández defeated Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. in the final round to claim the title, while Alonso failed in his second bid to match Ken Griffey Jr., as the only three-time Derby winner, bowing out in the first round.
Alonso joins shortstop Francisco Lindor and closer Edwin Diaz as representatives for the Mets at the Midsummer Classic.
The Mets currently sit 1.5 games back of the Philadelphia Phillies for first place in the NL East.
The Home Run Derby is set for July 14 at 8 p.m. ET with the All-Star Game to follow on July 15 at 8 p.m. ET from Truist Park in Atlanta.
