Shock for Mets Fans: Pete Alonso Misses First Game After 353 Straight Starts Due to Hand Injury
New York, July 21, 2025 — For the first time this season, New York Mets’ star slugger Pete Alonso was missing from the starting lineup — and fans quickly noticed.
The Mets’ reliable first baseman is now listed as day-to-day due to a bruise in his right hand. He had played in 99 straight games this season and a remarkable 353 straight games overall since June 2023. Despite the injury’s insignificance, the Mets proceeded with caution in Sunday’s Citi Field game against the Cincinnati Reds.
Why Alonso Is Resting
Mets manager Carlos Mendoza revealed that Alonso’s hand issue was likely caused by being “jammed” during at-bats, and that it worsened over time. Although X-rays came back negative, the team didn’t want to risk turning a small issue into a longer-term setback.
“When it comes to hand injuries, it’s better to act early before it gets worse,” Mendoza said. “He’s been playing nonstop. So we had a conversation with him and the medical staff, and felt giving him rest was the best call today.”
Alonso Could Still Pinch Hit
While Alonso isn’t starting, he’s not completely sidelined. According to Mendoza, if needed, Alonso might be available off the bench later in the game. The 29-year-old has been a key piece of the Mets’ offense and hasn’t missed a game since mid-2023.
Mark Vientos Steps In at First Base
In Alonso’s absence, Mark Vientos took over at first base and was placed in the cleanup spot in the batting order. It was his 10th career start at that position.
“Mark’s ready,” Mendoza said. “He’s comfortable at first and we trust him. Since the Reds are starting a left-hander today, it made more sense to go with him over Jared Young.”
Vientos, speaking ahead of the game, said he was focused and excited. “I know the position and I’m going to give it my all,” he told MW News B.
Final Game of the Series Against the Reds
Also, Sunday’s game was very important for the Mets, who are trying to avoid a sweep after Cincinnati won the first two games. As they come back from the All-Star break, the team wants to get back on track and finish the game strong. David Peterson will take the field for New York and start the game. The Mets’ most reliable pitcher this season has been the lefty, who has a 6-4 record and a 3.06 earned run average in 18 starts. He also threw a perfect inning in the 2025 All-Star Game, showing that he was one of the best pitchers in the game.
The Reds counter with Andrew Abbott, who has been nothing short of dominant. With an 8-1 record and a 2.07 ERA, the left-hander is considered one of the toughest pitchers in the National League this year.
What’s Next for the Mets and Alonso?
As the Mets aim to find momentum, all eyes will be on Alonso’s recovery. If his hand heals quickly, fans can expect him to return to the lineup soon. Until then, the team hopes its depth can carry the load and prevent falling further behind in the standings.
