Talented player has finally return back

PITTSBURGH — Pete Alonso views the Home Run Derby as a platform to give back to the community, but tthere’s also the rush of competing in an event he dreamed about participating in growing up.

“It’s a full stadium, a sold-out stadium for people all there to see the same thing,” the Mets first baseman said Monday, a day after his All-Star selection and announcement he would participate in the derby. “I think the coolest part about our game is seeing balls hit hard and far, and it’s a great event and taking a really fun batting practice.”

The event has a prize pool of $2.5 million with the winner receiving $1 million.