As the Baltimore Orioles face off against the New York Yankees in their spring training opener, all eyes are on Pete Alonso, making his much-anticipated debut with the Orioles. The 31-year-old slugger nearly notched his first hit for Baltimore, but Yankees prospect Kenedy Corona had other plans. Corona's diving catch in left-center field robbed Alonso of what looked like a sure hit in the bottom of the third inning.
Pete Alonso smokes a ball into the gap by Yankees prospect Kenedy Corona snags it pic.twitter.com/HkkBY8L1tj
— Talkin' Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) February 20, 2026
Through five innings, the game remains scoreless, showcasing a classic pitchers' duel. The Orioles have managed just four hits, while the Yankees have been held to a single hit. Despite the early-season setting, the level of pitching on display is impressive, hinting at a competitive season ahead.
Alonso's arrival in Baltimore comes on the heels of a significant five-year, $155 million contract. The Orioles are banking on his power at first base to bolster their lineup.
Alonso, a five-time All-Star, brings a wealth of experience from his seven seasons with the New York Mets, where he put up impressive numbers last year: a .272 batting average, .347 OBP, 170 hits, 38 home runs, and 126 RBIs. Notably, he led the National League with 41 doubles.
As he settles into his new home, Alonso is expected to be a pivotal player for the Orioles, who are eager to improve on last season's 75-87 record. With spring training as a warm-up, the Orioles aim to hit the ground running, starting with their Opening Day matchup against the Minnesota Twins. Fans are hopeful that Alonso's big bat will be a game-changer in Baltimore's pursuit of success this season.