Former Orioles Pitcher Signs Minor League Deal with Royals

John Means inks two-year contract after recovering from Achilles injury

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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John Means, a former pitcher for the Baltimore Orioles, has signed a two-year minor league contract with the Kansas City Royals. The deal comes as Means continues to recover from an Achilles injury that sidelined him for the 2025 season.

Why it matters

Means was a key part of the Orioles' rotation for several seasons before suffering the Achilles injury. His signing with the Royals represents an opportunity for the veteran pitcher to work his way back to the major leagues and continue his career.

The details

The contract Means signed with the Royals is a minor league deal, which means he will have to earn a spot on the team's major league roster through strong performance in spring training and the minor league season. Means is looking to regain the form that made him an All-Star in 2023 after missing the entire 2025 campaign due to the Achilles injury.

  • Means signed the two-year minor league contract on February 13, 2026.

The players

John Means

A former pitcher for the Baltimore Orioles who missed the 2025 season due to an Achilles injury.

Kansas City Royals

A Major League Baseball team based in Kansas City, Missouri that has signed Means to a minor league contract.

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What’s next

Means will report to the Royals' spring training facility in Surprise, Arizona to compete for a spot on the major league roster.

The takeaway

Means' signing with the Royals represents a chance for the veteran pitcher to revive his career after a significant injury setback. If he can regain his previous form, he could provide a valuable addition to the Royals' pitching staff.