New York Mets first baseman Pete Alonso told reporters Monday that he's lucky to be alive and well after being involved in a terrible car crash Sunday in Tampa on his way to spring training.
The slugger says another driver ran a red light and T-boned his car, causing it to flip over. Alonso says he had to kick out his windshield to escape his overturned vehicle.
"I'm really thankful to be alive," the 2019 All-Star reserve explained.
He added that the people in the other vehicle were not seriously hurt. His wife, who was trailing him in a separate vehicle, sprang into action.
"She alerted the authorities and got people to help out before the authorities showed up," he said. "It was awesome."
Alonso said the incident put his baseball career into perspective.
"Every day is a gift," he said Monday. "Today's really special for me. I just had a blast out there today doing work, seeing everybody. I don't think I've ever been happier showing up for spring training. Again, it's truly amazing how I'm here. Again, like, I'm so fortunate that everyone's okay."
Last season, Alonso became the second-fastest player in MLB history to hit 100 career home runs. He crossed the century mark in his 347th big league game, second only to Ryan Howard, who hit his 100th home run in 325 career games.