Pete Alonso joined the Baltimore Orioles ahead of the 2026 season, immediately signaling that his proven power hitting and veteran leadership will be major assets. Known for his consistent home run production, Alonso has already demonstrated his ability to deliver, following two home runs in his initial spring training games. Orioles fans can look forward to the stability and offensive boost he is expected to provide for the next five years, addressing key weaknesses from the previous season.
The Orioles struggled in 2025, with no player exceeding 20 home runs. Jackson Holliday, Gunnar Henderson, and Jordan Westburg tied for the team lead with just 17 homers each, highlighting the lack of power in the lineup. Comparatively, Alonso’s individual home run totals more than doubled that figure. The contrast with rival teams was stark: the Yankees boasted eight players with more than 17 home runs, while Cal Raleigh led his team with a total far exceeding the Orioles’ top hitters.
Beyond home runs, Alonso complements the Orioles with consistent hitting ability. Last year, he led the league in doubles, contributing to offense even when the ball didn’t leave the park. His presence provides the Orioles with a reliable middle-of-the-order bat to complement their young lineup.
Veteran Leadership Could Outweigh Power in Team Impact
While Alonso’s power is obvious, his leadership qualities may have an even greater effect on the Orioles’ 2026 season. The team’s core, including players like Gunnar Henderson and Jordan Westburg, despite several years of professional experience, remains young and still developing. Toward the end of last season, both Henderson and Westburg expressed the team’s need for a seasoned leader in the clubhouse to help guide and energize their group.
Alonso’s leadership style fits naturally with the Orioles’ culture. Rather than forcing a vocal presence, Alonso brings an authentic and encouraging energy. Westburg articulated this sentiment in an interview with Andy Kostka from the Baltimore Banner, stating:
“I do think it would be good to have a personality going forward, whatever adjective you want to use: polarizing, loud, boisterous, whatever… The important part is bringing in somebody who had that personality, and we’re not forcing them, like, ‘Hey, we need you to be loud…”
This remark highlights the importance of a genuine leader whose presence is organic rather than contrived, a role in which Alonso evidently excels.
Numerous videos from Orioles media and reporters show Alonso actively communicating with teammates during batting practice, consistently encouraging and advising them. Recently, Matt Weyrich of the Baltimore Sun captured Alonso engaged in a detailed conversation with non-roster invitee José Barrero in the dugout, sharing hitting insights before Barrero’s at-bat, which resulted in a double. This example illustrates Alonso’s genuine investment in helping teammates improve.
Pete Alonso talking hitting with José Barrero in the Orioles’ dugout. Saw him doing the same thing with Samuel Basallo last inning too.Barrero then doubled to deep left field his next at-bat. pic.twitter.com/iPQnov18I7 — Matt Weyrich (@ByMattWeyrich) February 22, 2026
Alonso’s Natural Role as a Mentor and Energizer for Young Orioles
The sincerity of Alonso’s interactions is notable, especially given that they occur away from televised games or public fanfare. Barrero is unlikely to make the Orioles’ roster in 2026, yet Alonso’s guidance is evident, demonstrating that his leadership is not motivated by external recognition but by a natural desire to support and improve his teammates. This aligns perfectly with the Orioles’ desire for an unforced vocal leader who can help elevate the team’s overall character and performance.
Throughout the 2026 season, fans can expect to see Alonso frequently engaged in the dugout with young players such as Samuel Basallo and Dylan Beavers. His involvement will extend beyond mentoring to include contributions on the field, where he is likely to produce substantial home run totals once again. Additionally, Alonso’s leadership will influence team culture, including participation in traditions like deciding home run celebrations, helping build camaraderie and a winning atmosphere.
In sum, Pete Alonso represents a critical addition to the Orioles roster, poised not only to address their offensive shortcomings but also to infuse the clubhouse with much-needed leadership. His blend of power hitting and approachable, motivating personality sets the stage for a transformative impact on Baltimore’s young team as they aim for greater success in the upcoming season and beyond.
Pete Alonso talking hitting with José Barrero in the Orioles’ dugout. Saw him doing the same thing with Samuel Basallo last inning too.
Barrero then doubled to deep left field his next at-bat. pic.twitter.com/iPQnov18I7
— Matt Weyrich (@ByMattWeyrich) February 22, 2026
