John Means: "Blessing in Disguise" Royals Move After Achilles Rupture – Rehab & Outlook скачать в хорошем качестве

John Means: "Blessing in Disguise" Royals Move After Achilles Rupture – Rehab & Outlook

Former Orioles All-Star and no-hitter hero John Means sits down with Ryan Ripken for an open, resilient conversation about his latest chapter: signing a two-year minor-league deal with the Kansas City Royals (announced Feb 13, 2026) after a devastating Achilles rupture in December 2025. Means calls the move a "blessing in disguise"—closer to family (newly married, 9-month-old daughter), low-pressure environment for recovery, and a chance to rebuild after years of setbacks. He details the injury moment ("loud pop" during a sprint drill, initially thinking his shoe broke), post-surgery pain, but emphasizes positives: arm/elbow/shoulder feel great, throwing from a knee with his PT, and full gratitude for the mend. Means reflects on velocity peaks (hit 96.5 mph in 2020, up to 98 mph bursts), the no-hitter legacy, spring training routines (PFPs, live BPs, slow inning builds), why late signings miss key reps/chemistry, and the "unsolvable" puzzle of modern pitching injuries (chasing spin/velo data, mechanics vs. body limits). Nostalgic Orioles moments shine through (Iron Rooster hangs, time flying since last pitch in 2021), plus light-hearted bits like his post-injury car song ("That's Life" by Sinatra) and humorous take ("God really wanted me in KC... so much he tore my Achilles"). A heartfelt, motivational listen for baseball fans—proving comebacks are about grace, routine, and silver linings.