John Means announced on Instagram that he tore his Achilles on the same day he was set to sign a contract for the 2026 MLB season.
“I was finally enjoying my first healthy offseason in four years and felt better than ever,” Means wrote on Thursday. “I don’t know why this happened or how this chapter will ultimately be used, but I know it’s now part of my story and God has a plan.”
The 32-year-old Means, a 2019 AL All-Star, did not pitch during the 2025 season. He has only appeared in 10 MLB games since 2022 due to numerous injuries, including a pair of Tommy John surgeries.
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Means signed a one-year deal with the Cleveland Guardians in February and made seven appearances between High-A and Triple-A. Last month, the Guardians declined their club option, making the left-hander a free agent.
Means was an 11th-round draft pick by the Baltimore Orioles in 2014. He made his MLB debut in 2018 and then became a regular in the team’s rotation in 2019. He started 27 games that season, posting a 12-11 record with a 1.14 WHIP and 121 strikeouts in 155 innings. Along with an All-Star appearance, he finished second in voting for AL Rookie of the Year.
In 2021, Means was named the Orioles’ Opening Day starter. A month later, he no-hit the Seattle Mariners with 12 strikeouts and 0 walks. He allowed only a single baserunner, who got on following a wild pitch after a strikeout.