An email from a concerned fan, SheaMetsFan78, simply asked, “Tell me please that Peter Alonso is real.” The answer is a resounding yes. Peter Alonso is not just real; he’s making a significant impact as a New York Mets prospect.
Currently playing for the Binghamton Rumble Ponies in Double-A, Peter Alonso has been tearing up the Eastern League. His impressive stat line boasts a .314 batting average, a .440 on-base percentage, and a .573 slugging percentage. He’s knocked 15 home runs, walked 43 times, and struck out 50 times. This strong performance is a continuation of his successful 2017 season, solidifying his status as a top prospect within the Mets organization.
Before the season began, Alonso was ranked third on the Mets Top 20 prospects list. The pre-season analysis highlighted his potential:
3) Peter Alonso, 1B, Grade B-/B: Age 23, second round pick in 2016 from University of Florida; hit .289/.359/.524 with 18 homers, 27 walks, 71 strikeouts in 353 at-bats between High-A and Double-A; showed very good power despite feeling the effects of a hand injury much of the season; doesn’t strike out much for a home run bat but can be somewhat aggressive and a few more walks would be nice; or not, right now there’s not much reason to change his approach since it works; bigger concern is defense, with a career .980 fielding percentage at first base, an unacceptable ratio at that position; past defensive rep was positive so glove will hopefully improve; ETA 2019.
At 23 years old, Alonso’s performance in Double-A has exceeded expectations from his already impressive 2017 season. He’s demonstrating growth against tougher competition, a key indicator of a player ready to advance. His isolated power has increased, and he’s refined his approach at the plate. While maintaining a reasonable strikeout rate for a power hitter, Alonso has significantly improved his walk rate, showing a more disciplined and mature approach to hitting.
Offensive Prowess: Is Alonso’s Bat Ready for the Next Level?
There’s no doubt that Alonso’s bat is ready for the challenge of Triple-A baseball. Moving up to the Pacific Coast League, known for being hitter-friendly, would likely provide an even greater stage for his offensive talents. The question isn’t if his bat is ready for Triple-A, but rather, is it ready for a major league opportunity? Some analysts suggest he could be given a chance in the major leagues later this year to see how his power translates against MLB pitching.
Defensive Concerns: The Glove Still a Question Mark
Despite his offensive capabilities, defense remains a significant concern for Alonso. First basemen are typically expected to be strong defenders, and Alonso’s error rates have historically been higher than desired for the position. While his fielding percentage has improved slightly this year to .986, it’s still an area that needs continued attention.
As noted in scouting reports, range is not a strength of Alonso’s defensive game. Baseball America‘s 2018 report described him as an “uncoordinated, slow-bodied defender” who needs substantial defensive improvements to be considered playable at the major league level. A combination of too many errors and limited range would be a liability at first base in the major leagues.
Spring Training Optimism: Hints of Defensive Progress
There were encouraging reports from spring training regarding Alonso’s defensive progress. One source told Baseball America that Alonso’s “footwork has improved, and his recognition off the bat has gotten better…he has improved on popups and is working on glove-side grounders. His throwing is solid.”
However, these reported improvements have only translated into marginal gains in regular season statistics so far. Despite the limited statistical evidence of drastic improvement, there’s a consensus that Alonso is dedicated to refining his defensive skills. Even if he doesn’t become a Gold Glove-caliber first baseman, the hope is that he can become defensively adequate enough to allow his powerful bat to play at the highest level.
Verdict: Real Offense, Defense in Development
Peter Alonso’s offensive prowess is undeniable and “real” as the fan inquired. His performance at Double-A clearly demonstrates that his bat is advanced and likely ready for higher levels of competition. While his defense is still a work in progress, the reports of his dedication and some spring training improvements offer a glimmer of hope that he can become acceptable defensively.
Considering his continued offensive dominance and potential defensive development, Peter Alonso is now considered a straight Grade B prospect, with the potential to climb higher depending on his defensive progress and continued offensive success as he advances through the minor league system, potentially starting with a move to Triple-A soon. Mets fans have good reason to be excited about Peter Alonso and his potential impact on the team in the future.
