Pete Alonso Returns to New York for Further Testing on Wrist Injury

Pete Alonso, the first baseman for the New York Mets, returned to New York on Thursday for additional testing after being hit on his left wrist by a pitch and leaving Wednesday’s game against the Atlanta Braves. Manager Buck Showalter said Alonso had a CT scan in Atlanta on Thursday morning and was scheduled for an MRI later in the day in New York. Showalter stated that the team would rather have their people examine Alonso.

Alonso, who leads the majors with 22 homers, was hit by a 96 mph fastball from Charlie Morton in the first inning of Atlanta’s 7-5 win on Wednesday night. The Mets said on Wednesday that Alonso had a contusion, and X-rays revealed no broken bones. However, more tests were scheduled even before Showalter said Alonso had more soreness in the wrist on Thursday morning.

Charlie Morton’s Apology to Alonso

After hitting Alonso, Morton apologized to him one night after Alonso hit a long homer and then was heard shouting at Braves right-hander Bryce Elder, “Throw it again. Throw it again, please. Throw it again.” Alonso stated that Morton was looking for him and wanted to apologize. Morton is a good guy, and the situation did not call for it either. Alonso made it clear that he just happened to get hit with an up-and-in fastball.

The Mets’ Hope Without Alonso

The Mets entered Thursday’s game on a five-game losing streak and played without Alonso for the first time this season. A significant injury to the slugger would harm the Mets’ chances of returning to contention in the NL East. New York entered Thursday’s game in third place, 7½ games behind Atlanta. Showalter, however, remained optimistic that Alonso could return during a three-game series at Pittsburgh that begins Friday.

Mark Vientos as Alonso’s Replacement

Rookie Mark Vientos, who was recalled from Triple-A Syracuse on May 17, made his first start of the season at first base as a fill-in for Alonso, who has made 59 starts at first and three at designated hitter. Alonso leads the NL with 49 RBIs and is hitting .231.

Alonso’s injury is a blow to the Mets, but they remain hopeful that he will be able to return soon. In the meantime, the team will rely on their rookies and continue to fight for a playoff spot.