Minor league signing could pay major dividends for Royals

The Kansas City Royals added an intriguing piece to their pitching depth on Friday.

The Royals announced that they have agreed to terms with pitcher John Means on a two-year minor league contract. Means is expected to miss most, if not all, of the 2026 season after tearing his Achilles tendon in December.

An All-Star and the AL Rookie of the Year runner-up in 2019, Means has made more than 10 appearances in a season just once since due to a litany of injuries. He has made a total of 10 appearances since the start of the 2022 season, missing all of 2025 as he recovered from his second Tommy John surgery.

John Means could help Kansas City Royals ... if he can stay healthy

Means has been a solid middle-of-the-rotation starter when he has been able to take the mound. He has a 3.68 ERA and a 1.050 WHiP over 401 career innings, striking out 334 batters with 79 walks. Opponents have posted a .226/.269/.420 batting line against Means in 1,621 plate appearances as he has been able to limit hard contact with impressive command.

The question is whether or not Means will be able to come close to his past success. He will be coming off of what will essentially be a five-year layoff in 2027 in his age-34 season. 

For the Royals, this is a low-risk move that could pay significant dividends. They will be able to supervise Means' rehab and work to get him back on the mound. If he is unable to be close to the pitcher he was, the Royals can walk away at minimal cost. However, if Means proves to be healthy and still has a strong arsenal with impeccable command, he could be a bargain.