Pete Alonso Takes Home Major Award in First Season With Baltimore Orioles

The Baltimore Orioles signed Pete Alonso to a massive five-year, $155 million contract this past offseason in one of the biggest moves in franchise history. The organization has frequently failed in their pursuit of big-time free agents but they were finally able to get a big fish in Alonso.

The Orioles signed him not only because he is one of the best first basemen of his era as a former National League Rookie of the Year, Silver Slugger and five-time All-Star, but because of his postseason experience and the impact a veteran of his caliber could have on a young clubhouse.

While his first season in Baltimore has not gone to plan and the Orioles have remained under the .500 mark for a majority of the year, it has not been Alonso's fault at all.

He has been one of their best hitters after a slow start and has been available for every game this season, appearing in all 117 contests. Across 438 at-bats, the 31-year-old right-handed slugger has posted a .247 batting average, .340 on-base percentage, .794 OPS, 23 home runs and 71 RBIs.

While his on-field performance has been impressive and as advertised, on Saturday the Orioles recognized him for the intangibles as he took home a major award.

"Congratulations to Pete Alonso on being named our 2026 Heart and Hustle Award winner!" the Orioles wrote on social media.

Alonso also won the award in 2025 with the New York Mets, so seeing him earn the recognition again in Baltimore is not surprising. It speaks to a consistent standard of professionalism and character that travels with him regardless of what uniform he is wearing.

His leadership is especially important for the Orioles right now. After dealing away multiple pieces at this year's trade deadline, including longtime face of the franchise Adley Rutschman to the Boston Red Sox, having a player like Alonso to stick with the young roster, instill confidence and boost morale is invaluable.

He still has four more years remaining on his contract after this one, so even if Baltimore misses the playoffs again, which is becoming increasingly likely, he will be leading the charge in 2027 and beyond.

The Orioles still have plenty of young talent locked up to surround him, and a quick turnaround is not out of the question with Alonso producing in the middle of the order. For now, Alonso and the Orioles will take on the Texas Rangers on Sunday as they look to avoid a sweep.