Former All-Star John Means ruptures Achilles in latest devastating injury

The injuries continue for John Means.

Means, 32, suffered a ruptured Achilles during a workout this week, he announced on social media Thursday.

The left-handed pitcher said he underwent successful surgery, but did not share an expected timeline to return.

Baltimore Orioles starting pitcher John Means throws to the Seattle Mariners during the first inning on May 17, 2024, in Baltimore. AP

“This is hard to put into words, but I’ll try,” Means wrote on Instagram. “On Tuesday, while training, I ruptured my Achilles. It happened the same day I was supposed to sign with a team and be available on Opening Day for the first time in a long time.

“Yesterday, I underwent successful surgery with Dr. Vopat and his incredible team. I was finally enjoying my first healthy offseason in four years and felt better than ever. 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.”

Means, who is a free agent, did not specify which team he was apparently supposed to sign with before his injury.

Means’ Achilles tear is just the latest of a slew of injuries that have riddled the lefty’s MLB career, as he missed the majority of the 2022 and 2023 seasons while recovering from Tommy John surgery.

Baltimore Orioles pitcher John Means throws against the Chicago White Sox in the first inning of a baseball game, Wednesday, April 24, 2019, in Baltimore. AP

The former All-Star started just four games for the Orioles in 2024 before needing another elbow surgery.

He signed a deal with the Guardians ahead of the 2025 season but didn’t see any time in the majors.

Means did briefly pitch in the minors last season, but he didn’t have much success, holding a 6.08 ERA through 26⅔ innings with Triple-A Columbus and the High-A Lake County Captains.

While on the mound from 2022-24, Means was effective — having a 2.75 ERA and 0.86 WHIP — but staying on the field was the issue, as he started just 10 games during that span.

During his rookie season in 2019, Means emerged as one of the league’s most promising arms with Baltimore, pitching to a 3.60 ERA through 27 starts and finishing second in American League Rookie of the Year award voting.