Pete Alonso homered in his spring training debut for the Baltimore Orioles, providing the only runs in a 2-0 exhibition victory over the New York Yankees on Friday. The slugger, who signed a $155 million, five-year contract with Baltimore in December after seven seasons with the Mets, connected on a first-pitch curveball from Bradley Hanner in the sixth inning.

Alonso's homer came in his third plate appearance wearing an Orioles uniform, marking his first major league appearance outside of New York. The 31-year-old five-time All-Star wanted additional at-bats and work at first base even after most regulars had exited the spring opener. Manager Craig Albernaz praised Alonso's competitive drive, noting his desire to maximize every opportunity.

Adding sentimental value to the moment, Alonso's parents attended the game just a short drive from his Tampa home. The former Mets star played youth baseball at the nearby Cal Ripken Complex, where his travel team, the Sarasota Salty Dogs, once competed. Alonso expressed feeling honored to wear the Orioles uniform and described the experience as special given his local roots.