Mets' Pete Alonso Won't Compete in 2025 MLB Home Run Derby, 2-Time Winner of Event

New York Mets slugger Pete Alonso revealed that he won't be participating in the 2025 MLB Home Run Derby.

“I just decided not to do it this year,” Alonso said, per Tim Britton of The Athletic. “I have never really fully enjoyed the three off-days, so I just want to be in the best possible position to help this team win in the second half. I’m in a groove with certain things.”

This is the first time in the 30-year-old's career that he won't be competing in the event, as he previously won the contest in 2019 and 2021.

Alonso's most recent appearance came in 2024, failing to advance beyond the first round.

He's continued to showcase his power at the plate this season, racking up 20 home runs and 73 RBIs to go along with a National League-leading 25 doubles.

Alonso will still be making an appearance during the All-Star festivities, as he was selected as an All-Star for the fifth time in his career on Sunday.

While the first baseman won't be vying for the Home Run Derby title this year, he left the door open for a potential return to the competition.

“I love the event," Alonso said, via Britton. "It’s a sick event. I definitely will do it again. It doesn’t mean ‘No’ forever. I figure I’ll take a break.”

He's served as a key piece in a Mets lineup that has been productive throughout the first half of the season, ranking No. 4 among NL squads with 118 home runs and a team OPS of .742.

New York owns a 52-39 record this year, sitting 1.5 games back from the Philadelphia Phillies for the No. 1 spot in the NL East.

As Alonso looks to help the Mets close out the regular season on a high note and advance to the postseason for a second consecutive year, he'll forgo the Home Run Derby.