Pete Alonso Named NL Player of the Week – But Braves Fans Say It’s “East Coast Bias” at Play
Power Surge Earns Alonso Weekly Honors
New York Mets slugger Pete Alonso has been officially named National League Player of the Week, following a white-hot performance that saw him blast home runs, rack up RBIs, and dominate the diamond. It’s the kind of stretch most hitters dream of — and the league took notice.
But while Mets fans celebrated, a different story was brewing south of New York.
Braves Fans Outraged: “This Is Bias!”
Shortly after the announcement, some Atlanta Braves fans took to social media, accusing the league of favoritism.
“Just because he plays in New York, he gets priority!” one fan fumed on X (formerly Twitter), sparking heated debate.
“This is classic East Coast bias. If a Braves player put up those same numbers, it wouldn’t even make headlines.”
The criticism centers on the belief that players from major markets like New York or Los Angeles often get more media attention and accolades — even when other players have comparable or better stats.
Alonso’s Stats: Unquestionably Hot
Let’s be clear — Pete Alonso earned his honor:
- .400+ batting average
- 4 home runs
- 10+ RBIs
- Game-winning hits in clutch moments
The Mets’ first baseman didn’t just pad his stats — he lifted the team during a key stretch and reminded everyone why he’s one of the most feared power hitters in the league.
Still, fans from rival teams are pointing to similar performances from other NL players — including Braves standouts — who didn’t get the same recognition.
Braves’ Numbers: A Case for Competition?
Some Atlanta fans cited Matt Olson and Austin Riley, both of whom had solid weeks with multi-hit games and strong defensive showings. But statistically, Alonso still had the edge, especially in power numbers and win impact.
One Braves supporter posted:
“It’s not that Alonso didn’t deserve it — it’s that our guys get ignored. Every. Single. Time.”
Is This Another Case of “Big Market Bias”?
The term “East Coast bias” has long been a buzzword in MLB circles. Players and fans from smaller-market or non-coastal teams often feel overlooked — especially when players from teams like the Yankees, Mets, Dodgers, or Red Sox grab headlines.
Sports media analysts argue that TV ratings, team market size, and media visibility inevitably play a role in award narratives, even if unintentionally.
Pete Alonso Responds with Class
When asked about the backlash, Alonso took the high road:
“I’m just focused on helping my team win. Awards are nice, but the goal is the postseason,” he said in a postgame interview.
Mets Fans Fire Back
Of course, Mets Nation didn’t take the criticism quietly. In defense of their slugger, one fan wrote:
“Alonso didn’t just win Player of the Week — he carried the offense. Haters can stay mad.”
Conclusion: Dominance or Disrespect? The Debate Rages On
While Pete Alonso’s numbers speak for themselves, the reaction from rival fanbases—particularly Braves supporters—reveals deeper tensions about recognition, media bias, and market dynamics in Major League Baseball.
Whether you view Alonso’s win as well-earned or overhyped, one thing is certain: the rivalry just got hotter.
