Bader’s life and career have both come full circle to land him on the New York Mets with a former college teammate.
The 29-year-old was born in Bronxville, New York, and went on to play college baseball with Pete Alonso at Florida.
The duo were known as the “Diesel Brothers” during their time playing for the Florida Gators.
“To play with somebody I was really close with for multiple years at university was awesome,” Bader told The Sun.
“To have it come full circle in the major leagues is honestly a dream come true.
“There’s really nothing like it for the both of us and we both love playing this game.
“I’m just happy we get a chance to do it together for as long as we can.”
Alonso, also 29, has become a massive star since his debut in 2019.
He has become known for his home run long-hitting power and earned the nickname the “Polar Bear.”
After a short spell with the Cincinnati Reds last year, Bader became part of the New York Mets’ overhaul.
He signed a one-year contract worth $10.5 million at the start of this year to link back up with Alonso.
“I always knew he was going to be a star,” Bader said about Alonso.
“The very first time, I remember being told this big donkey first baseman out of Tampa, Florida, was coming in and he’s going to play first base for us.
“I thought ‘everybody had got to prove themselves and I wish him the best and see what he’s got.’
