Just when it seemed impossible, the Atlanta Braves' season could fall any lower, the franchise was center stage for a hated rival to set history. Losing to the New York Mets is always punishment in itself; however, Tuesday's loss added a bit of salt to the wound with Pete Alonso setting the Mets' all-time home run record while Atlanta could only sit back and watch. Alonso was just a homer shy of Darryl Strawberry's record coming into the game.
The tying shot would come off Spencer Strider, who endured yet another rough night, while the other would come courtesy of Austin Cox. Alonso enjoyed the moment, and it unquestionably helped that it came at the hands of a hated rival. There is no love lost when it comes to the New York first baseman and the Atlanta fan base.
Most infamously was the infielder's "Throw it again" taunt that would help spark an epic Braves comeback. Unfortunately, no such spark exists in what is going to be a lost season. Far too many key pieces are sitting on the shelf, and the depth was questionable to start. With this in mind, Alonso had better enjoy the moment while he can.
Pete Alonso Celebrates Milestone at Braves Expense
The Braves have rarely been at a disadvantage in recent history when it comes to divisional dominance against the National League East rival. A lost season is exactly what was needed to create a sense of urgency in the front office and ownership groups once again.
Since the 2021 World Series run, the franchise has remained content to sign bargain deals and lock up star players long before free agency in favor of a discount. Slowly, this has drained the team's depth as stars have walked away and depth hasn't been restocked or paid market value. All of this contributed to yet another night of misery.
An early offensive spark was quickly snuffed when the bullpen and rotation were unable to hold the game at 5-5 with Alonso's moment giving the Mets an early lead and Brandon Nimmo recapturing it with a three-run blast. Not a fun night at the park for a group that continues to find new ways to frustrate its fan base.
For Alonso, it is an impressive achievement even if it does pale in comparison to what it means to take Atlanta's franchise record in that department. The veteran's 253 homers failing to rank him inside the Braves' all-time top six points out just how easily Mets' records can be accomplished.