Orioles Kick Off Spring Training with Alonso's Blast

Slugger stays in game as Orioles rest starters in preseason opener

Feb. 20, 2026 at 9:22pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Baltimore Orioles opened their Grapefruit League schedule against the New York Yankees, with most of the team's starting position players opting to take the afternoon off. However, Mets slugger Pete Alonso decided he wanted to stay in the game and get additional at-bats, hitting a home run in the sixth inning.

Why it matters

Spring training games provide valuable opportunities for players to get ready for the upcoming season, with Alonso demonstrating his commitment to preparing himself despite the Orioles resting their regulars.

The details

With the Orioles starting to empty their bench in the sixth inning, most of the club's starting position players took a seat for the afternoon. But Alonso, who is not on the Orioles roster, chose to remain in the game, saying "I like getting prepped for the season. I think getting as many looks from different arms is always a good thing."

  • The Orioles played their Grapefruit League opener against the Yankees on Friday, February 20, 2026.

The players

Pete Alonso

A slugger who plays for the New York Mets, not the Orioles.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I like getting prepped for the season. I think getting as many looks from different arms is always a good thing.”

— Pete Alonso

The takeaway

Alonso's decision to stay in the game and get additional at-bats, even as the Orioles rested their starters, demonstrates the dedication and preparation that top players put in during spring training to get ready for the upcoming season.