John Means has left for Cleveland, but a piece of his heart will always belong in Baltimore. Means has spent his entire career journey with the Orioles. And now, the renowned lefty pitcher has signed with Cleveland Guardians for the upcoming 2025 season with a 2026 club option. Before moving towards the next chapter of his life, he ensured to leave a heartfelt message for the city and the team which played a huge role in shaping his career.

Means beautiful stated, “It’s hard to put into words what this organisation has meant to me and my family after a decade.” He also added, “when I was drafted, I knew nothing about Baltimore, and now it’s the backdrop to some of my life’s biggest joys.”

Means went from an underdog to their ace. He carved his name in the history with a no-hitter in 2021 against the Seattle Mariners. Before injuries piled up, he was the ace of the team.

Looking back on his journey, he went from an underrated player to an All-Star in 2019, racking up 12 wins and a 3.60 ERA. But what was his most memorable moment? It was May 5th, 2021. He struck out 12 and faced the minimum 27 batters. It’s fair to say that he was phenomenal that day. It was a kind of performance which can instantly carve a player’s name in the history.

Cleveland is banking on Means and waiting for him to come back in form. They are paying a guaranteed $1 million in 2025 and a $6 million club option for 2026. This deal reflects the confidence of the Guardians in Means’ ability to come back stronger.

Beyond the mound: John Means’ impact on Baltimore is deeper than baseball

For 10 years, Means wasn’t just a pitcher for the Orioles; he was a symbol of unparalleled dedication. One thing that Means’ farewell letter tells us is that this wasn’t just a job for him. Baltimore was more like a home for him. Each moment he spent on the field was beyond just wins and losses.

Through several injuries and setbacks, Means maintained a steady presence on his part. He stated, “To my teammates, thank you for making it a joy to come into the clubhouse every day, I always looked forward to stepping through those doors.” He also appreciated everybody from the organisation. From front office to clubhouse staff, he has expressed his gratitude to each one of them who has helped him to shape his career. He has also expressed how the organisation has lifted him up in the hardest times.

For now, John Means is all ready to continue his recovery from Tommy John surgery with a new start. Even though his time in Baltimore didn’t end the way he hoped for, this new chapter of his life gives him a chance to come back stronger and make an impact on the new team.

Social media is flooded with beautiful responses from the fans. They are getting nostalgic about his time with the Orioles, wishing him luck for the next chapter and reminiscing about his greatest games.