Pete Alonso Makes Career-First Start Batting Leadoff

In a significant lineup shift reported by Rich Dubroff, Pete Alonso is batting leadoff for the first time in his career during Friday's game against the Tampa Bay Rays. This experimental move marks a departure from his traditional middle-of-the-order role. The Baltimore Orioles are looking to leverage Alonso's power early in the game to create immediate scoring opportunities, a decision that has generated considerable attention regarding the team's offensive strategy.