This article shines a light on the connection between New York Yankees third base coach Luis Rojas and Mets star Pete Alonso. Rojas looks back on Alonso’s achievement as the Mets’ all-time home run leader with a genuine sense of pride.
Their story started in the minor leagues. Rojas managed Alonso during his first MLB seasons in 2020 and 2021.
Now, as Alonso cements his legacy, Rojas can’t help but share warm praise for his former player’s growth and passion for the sport.
Pete Alonso’s Historic Mets Milestone
On Tuesday night, Pete Alonso smashed a home run against the Atlanta Braves. That swing made him the New York Mets’ all-time leader in home runs.
This wasn’t just another number on the stat sheet. It was the payoff for years of hard work and raw potential finally coming together.
Alonso, known for his power since day one, delivered in a big way. As he rounded the bases, his face said it all.
No showboating, no bravado—just a quiet, unmistakable joy. Luis Rojas recognized that look right away.
It was the same expression Alonso wore as a young pro: genuine happiness and pure love for baseball.
Luis Rojas on Witnessing the Moment
Even in Yankee pinstripes, Rojas felt proud watching from afar. He’d managed Alonso for two seasons with the Mets and saw the whole journey up close.
“That look he had when he rounded the bases… it took me back,” Rojas said. “It’s the same happiness, the same hunger, he’s always had for this game.”
From the Minors to Mets Greatness
Rojas first got to know Alonso in the Mets’ minor league system. Coaches all agreed: his power was special, and it would play in the majors.
Alonso’s quick hands, strength, and eye at the plate set him apart from the start.
But Rojas remembers that it wasn’t just natural talent that made Alonso a star. The young first baseman worked hard to round out his game.
Rojas pointed out how Alonso improved on defense, responding to criticism and pushing himself to get better with the glove.
The Work Behind the Power
Rojas says Alonso’s rise didn’t just happen. He poured effort into every part of his craft, not just hitting.
Alonso worked on his glove, footwork, and fielding mechanics. That made him more than just a slugger.
This versatility turned Alonso into a true cornerstone for the Mets. He brought value both at the plate and in the field.
A Record Built on Passion and Consistency
Fans might see records as numbers. But for players and coaches, it’s about the story behind them.
Alonso’s record isn’t just about home runs. It’s about his steady love for the game, year after year.
Rojas called Alonso’s feat a “tremendous accomplishment.” That means a lot coming from someone who helped shape his early career.
The Bond That Lasts Beyond Teams
Even though Rojas now works for the Mets’ cross-town rivals, his admiration for Alonso hasn’t changed. In baseball, relationships and genuine respect really do go beyond uniforms sometimes.
They shared some pretty formative years together in the game. Bonds like that just don’t disappear overnight, do they?
- Pete Alonso breaks Mets all-time home run record against the Braves.
- Luis Rojas recalls managing Alonso and watching his development.
- Rojas praises Alonso’s defensive improvement and passion for the game.
- Even after joining the Yankees, Rojas still feels proud of Alonso’s achievements.
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Here is the source article for this story: What caught Luis Rojas’ eye as Pete Alonso made Mets home run history
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