Mets’ Pete Alonso Skips Home Run Derby to Prioritize Season

New York Mets star first baseman Pete Alonso has decided to skip the 2025 Home Run Derby during the MLB All-Star weekend in Atlanta, prioritizing rest and maintaining peak performance to help his team in the second half of the season. Despite his absence from the Derby, Alonso will still participate in the All-Star Game, marking his fifth selection, alongside teammates Francisco Lindor and Edwin Díaz. Alonso, a two-time Derby champion, cited that the adrenaline spikes and lack of rest during the event make it less enjoyable for him, and he emphasized his commitment to helping the Mets in their tight National League East race against the Philadelphia Phillies. Fernando Tatis Jr. of the San Diego Padres also announced he would skip the Derby due to muscle discomfort and a focus on staying healthy for the remainder of the season. Only a few players, including Ronald Acuña Jr., James Wood, and Cal Raleigh, have officially committed to the Derby so far. Alonso remains open to participating in future Derbies, especially if the event returns to favorite ballparks like Citi Field, Fenway, or Wrigley.