VIDEO: Pete Alonso Sets NL Rookie Record With 40th Home Run of the Year
By Charles Nason
If you weren't aware by now, Pete Alonso absolutely mashes at the dish. The Mets rookie has been shattering record after record with his power swing, and added another milestone to the books on Sunday evening. Polar Pete unleashed his 40th home run of the season, setting the all-time NL rookie record.
#4⃣0⃣!
— SNY (@SNYtv) August 18, 2019
That's the NL rookie home run record for @Pete_Alonso20! #PeteIsGood pic.twitter.com/dUEfia2BEH
After finally breaking Cody Bellinger's NL record of 39 home runs, Alonso can now set his eyes on some other massive achievements.
The MLB rookie record for home runs in a season was set just two years ago by Aaron Judge who blasted 52. Alonso will certainly have a shot to eclipse that mark.
Pete could also become the franchise's single-season home run leader with a coupe more long balls. He's currently one homer away from tying Carlos Beltran and Todd Hundley's record of 41.
Pete Alonso is on pace for 52 HR & 122 RBI this season.#LGM Single Season Records:
— Sportsnet Stats (@SNstats) August 16, 2019
HR - 41 (Carlos Beltran in 2006 & Todd Hundley in 1996)
RBI - 124 (David Wright in 2008 & Mike Piazza in 1999)
Alonso is also on pace for 122 RBI, which would leave him just shy of Mike Piazza and David Wright's record of 124.
The Mets clearly made the right move when they decided to promote Pete to the big leagues before the start of the season. He's rewarded their faith by showcasing his extraordinary power at the plate.