In a recent game against the Detroit Tigers, Baltimore Orioles first baseman Pete Alonso attempted a risky play that ultimately backfired. During the first game of a doubleheader, Detroit’s Dillon Dingler hit a ball straight at Alonso in the fourth inning, presenting what should have been a straightforward out.
With a runner on first, Alonso decided to avoid catching the ball and let it drop, hoping to turn the situation into a double play. This choice proved incorrect. Alonso failed in his attempt to play the ball off the dirt and made an errant throw to second base. Both Detroit runners advanced safely, and Alonso was charged with an error.
If Alonso’s play had succeeded, it would have been considered an intelligent move seldom seen on the field. However, such risks come with the chance of failure, which Alonso experienced during the game. The error allowed the Tigers to score two runs in the fourth inning. Despite this setback, Baltimore managed a 5-3 victory, breaking a three-game losing streak.
Alonso’s game didn’t improve at the plate, as he went 0-for-4. While his season includes highlights like 10 home runs and 32 RBI, he has faced challenges, reflected in his .224 batting average.
Alonso secured a five-year, $155 million contract with the Orioles in the offseason, averaging an annual salary of $31 million.