BREAKING: John Means has confirmed he ruptured his Achilles tendon during training on Tuesday, just as he was set to finalize a free agent deal. The veteran left-hander announced the injury via social media, stating it derails his plans to be ready for Opening Day for the first time in several years.
The incident occurred on February 20, 2024, the same day Means was scheduled to sign with a new team. In his post, he revealed he underwent surgery on February 21, 2024, a procedure that will keep him sidelined for an extended period.
Means, now 32, has faced a series of injuries that limited his appearances since mid-April 2022. He has pitched in only eight major league games over the past two seasons, following two Tommy John surgeries—one in April 2022 and another in June 2024.
Previously with the Cleveland Guardians, Means signed a minor league contract in February and made seven rehab starts in August and September as he recovered from his second elbow operation. However, Cleveland declined his $6 million option last month, leaving him in search of a new opportunity.
In his emotional announcement, he expressed frustration, stating, “I was finally enjoying my first healthy offseason in four years and felt better than ever.” This setback not only impacts Means’ career but also raises questions about the future of a pitcher who has a career record of 23-26 and a 3.68 ERA over seven seasons with the Baltimore Orioles.
As the baseball world watches this developing situation, fans and analysts alike are left to wonder how this latest injury will affect Means’ prospects in free agency and his long-term career. The urgency surrounding his recovery and potential return to the mound will be closely monitored in the coming months.
Stay tuned for updates on John Means and the implications of this injury on his future and the broader MLB landscape.
