What mistake did Stephen A. Smith make about Pete Alonso?

Stephen A. Smith incorrectly stated Pete Alonso played only 57 games in 2020, omitting that the MLB season was shortened to 60 games due to COVID-19.

How much did the Baltimore Orioles pay Pete Alonso?

The Baltimore Orioles signed Pete Alonso to a five-year contract worth $155 million.

Why was the 2020 MLB season shorter?

The 2020 MLB season was shortened to 60 games due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Home / Sports / Stephen A. Smith's MLB Gaffe: Pete Alonso Mix-Up

Stephen A. Smith's MLB Gaffe: Pete Alonso Mix-Up

12 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Stephen A. Smith mistakenly cited Pete Alonso's 2020 games played.
The 2020 MLB season was shortened to 60 games due to COVID-19.
Pete Alonso signed a five-year, $155 million deal with the Orioles.

Stephen A. Smith's MLB Gaffe: Pete Alonso Mix-Up

During recent MLB offseason commentary, Stephen A. Smith made a factual error while discussing Pete Alonso's career stats. He referenced Alonso playing only 57 games in the 2020 season, attributing it to an injury. However, this overlooked the unprecedented circumstances of that year, when Major League Baseball's season was limited to just 60 games because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Alonso, a consistent performer throughout his MLB career, has never missed more than 10 games in a single season outside of the unique 2020 campaign. As the New York Mets' all-time franchise home run leader, his departure to the Baltimore Orioles is a significant blow to the team. The Orioles secured Alonso with a considerable five-year contract worth $155 million.

While the financial terms likely exceeded what the Mets were prepared to offer for a first baseman with defensive limitations, the loss is still keenly felt by the fanbase. It is expected that most Mets supporters are aware of the abbreviated nature of the 2020 season, unlike the commentator who misstated the facts.