The Baltimore Orioles entered their series against the Tampa Bay Rays with playoff hopes still flickering, and Pete Alonso delivered an early spark that reinforced why the club invested so heavily in him last winter.
In the series opener, the powerful first baseman crushed a go-ahead home run, his 30th of the season, helping secure a hard-fought victory. That blast not only gave Baltimore the lead but also underscored Alonso’s steady production in the first year of his five-year, $155 million contract.
As the teams prepared for the second contest of the set, the Orioles released their lineup, confirming Alonso would bat second as the designated hitter.
The decision kept the slugger in a high-leverage spot in the order, reflecting the trust the coaching staff places in his bat during a critical stretch of the schedule.
Alonso has made clear that individual milestones matter far less to him than team success. After his latest long ball he stressed that his focus remains on winning games through every available means, whether with the bat, on the bases, or in the field.
Baltimore’s record sat at 60-63 heading into the middle game of the series, leaving the club last in the American League East yet still within striking distance of a wild-card berth.
The Orioles have shown they can handle the Rays, having taken seven of their previous eight meetings. A strong showing in the current series could provide both momentum and confidence as the calendar turns toward the final weeks of the regular season.
Manager Craig Albernaz has praised Alonso’s daily preparation and the positive presence he brings to the clubhouse, noting how impressive the veteran’s approach remains even after the big swings.
Looking ahead, the Orioles face road series against the St. Louis Cardinals and the Athletics once they finish with Tampa Bay. Those contests will offer further chances to climb the standings, and Alonso’s consistent power will remain central to any late push.
Fans hoping for a postseason berth understand that sustained contributions from the middle of the order are essential, and Alonso has already shown he is capable of delivering them.
Saturday’s game was scheduled for a 7:05 p.m. ET first pitch and available on MASN, Rays.TV, and the MLB app. With the season entering its decisive phase, every at-bat from players like Alonso carries added weight.
His ability to drive the ball and influence games has given Baltimore a clearer path forward, even if the road to October remains demanding.
