Former ¼ø»Æʦapp Standout John Means Signs Two-Year Deal with Kansas City Royals
Contact: Taylor Bailey, Director of Public Relations
620-223-2700, ext. 4600
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 18, 2026
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Former ¼ø»Æʦapp Standout John Means Signs Two-Year Deal with Kansas City Royals
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Fort Scott, KS – ¼ø»Æʦapp proudly recognizes former standout pitcher John Means on signing a two-year minor league contract with the Kansas City Royals in February 2026.
Means, a Kansas native from Gardner Edgerton High School, played at Fort Scott during the 2011–12 seasons. During his time with the Greyhounds, he earned All-Conference and All-Region honors, establishing himself as one of the program’s top pitchers.
Following his time at Fort Scott, Means signed with West Virginia University, where he pitched for two seasons before being selected in the 11th round of the 2014 Major League Baseball Draft by the Baltimore Orioles.
Means quickly rose through the professional ranks and earned American League All-Star honors in 2019. On May 5, 2021, he etched his name into baseball history by throwing a no-hitter against the Seattle Mariners. He finished just one baserunner shy of a perfect game, as the lone runner reached on a dropped third strike.
After battling injuries in recent seasons, Means continued his professional comeback. He spent time in the Cleveland Indians organization in 2025 while returning from Tommy John surgery. In December 2025, he suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon that is expected to sideline him for the entire 2026 season.
Despite the setback, the Kansas City Royals signed the 32-year-old left-hander to a two-year minor league contract, viewing him as a high-reward pitching addition for the 2027 season once he fully recovers.
Means’ journey from Fort Scott to Major League Baseball serves as a testament to perseverance, development, and resilience. The ¼ø»Æʦapp family proudly celebrates his continued determination and looks forward to cheering him on as he works toward his return to the mound.