The weekend didn’t bring good news for the Baltimore Orioles.
On Saturday, it was announced that O’s ace John Means, who was sidelined with a left elbow sprain, needs Tommy John surgery.
The Tommy John is an elbow reconstruction procedure frequently performed when there is significant damage on the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) in the elbow.
“John Means has announced that he will undergo Tommy John surgery. ‘I’m obviously disappointed, but more motivated than ever,’” MASN Orioles tweeted on Saturday.
John Means has announced that he will undergo Tommy John surgery.
“I’m obviously disappointed, but more motivated than ever.” pic.twitter.com/zk40T9dCD3
— Orioles on MASN (@masnOrioles) April 23, 2022
There is disappointment in Baltimore because Means is, far and away, their best and most consistent starter.
Means Will Be Missed By Players And Fans
The O’s staff had been one of the best in baseball in the early going, and it was, in large part, thanks to Means.
The talented left-hander, owner of one of the most effective changeups in baseball, had a solid 3.38 ERA in eight frames, in which he struck out seven foes.
Means had posted a 3.62 ERA in 146.2 innings in 2021, showing the world he can be an effective hurler in the tough AL East.
The Orioles, who were looking at least more fun and interesting compared to last season, will now be without their ace for at least 14 months.
The typical recovery time for Tommy John surgery is between 14-16 months, so it’s safe to say we won’t see Means until at least the second half of the 2023 campaign, if he doesn’t suffer any setbacks.
It’s obviously a significant blow for Baltimore’s staff and fans.
He was one of the most exciting attractions from Orioles games.
He intends to be back when fully healthy and show everybody he can still get big leaguers out.
