Pete Alonso Frustrated MLB Didn't Let Mets Wear 9/11 First Responder Caps as Team Avoids Fine
By Chris Russo
The Mets' newest on-field leader tried his hardest to properly honor New York's fallen heroes on Wednesday, but he wasn't allowed to go all the way.
Though rookie and MLB home run leader Pete Alonso customized cleats for all of his teammates, he showed some frustration in the postgame over his team being unable to wear baseball caps representing the FDNY and NYPD on the 18th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks.
"I think it's kind of sad guys weren't allowed to [wear the caps]"
— SNY (@SNYtv) September 12, 2019
Pete Alonso expressed frustration that MLB didn't allow him and his teammates to wear first responder caps to commemorate 9/11 https://t.co/BJrNNW0M3Z pic.twitter.com/mCso39HGI4
Alonso, whose grandfather lived in Queens after immigrating from Spain, was part of a Mets team that Wednesday night defeated the Diamondbacks, featuring an incredible coincidence to boot.
Alonso has become the Mets' newest superstar by hitting 47 home runs through Wednesday's game, and has even more right to be frustrated by Major League Baseball's decision, considering his contribution to the uniform changes.
Though the team could not wear the hats, they still wore the custom cleats, and fortunately, the league will not be punishing the organization for that.
Source: MLB will not be fining or disciplining Pete Alonso and/or the Mets in any way for the custom cleats commemorating 9/11, which they wore without permission. As it should be.
— Andy Martino (@martinonyc) September 12, 2019
Literal least they could do.
The Mets played an integral part in the healing process after the attacks, hosting the first sporting event in New York City since 9/11. Mike Piazza famously hit a two-run home run to beat the eventual division champion Atlanta Braves to help an emotional crowd grieve.
Though Wednesday night's contest was amazing, the tribute could've been next level if the MLB had been willing to cooperate.