25 Facts About John Means

Early Life and Background

John Means, a professional baseball pitcher, has an interesting journey that led him to the major leagues. Here are some intriguing facts about his early life and background.

1. Born on April 24, 1993, in Olathe, Kansas, John Alan Means grew up with a passion for baseball.
2. Means attended Gardner Edgerton High School in Gardner, Kansas, where he played baseball and honed his pitching skills.
3. After high school, he initially attended Fort Scott Community College before transferring to West Virginia University to continue his baseball career.
4. At West Virginia University, Means played for the Mountaineers and significantly improved his pitching, catching the attention of MLB scouts.

Professional Career

John Means' professional career is filled with notable achievements and milestones. Let's explore some key moments.

5. Drafted by the Baltimore Orioles in the 11th round of the 2014 MLB Draft, Means began his journey in professional baseball.
6. He made his MLB debut on September 26, 2018, against the Boston Red Sox, pitching 3 1/3 innings in relief.
7. In 2019, Means had a breakout season, earning a spot in the Orioles' starting rotation and finishing second in the American League Rookie of the Year voting.
8. Means was named an All-Star in 2019, a testament to his impressive performance during his rookie season.
9. On May 5, 2021, Means threw a no-hitter against the Seattle Mariners, becoming the first Orioles pitcher to do so since 1991.

Personal Life

John Means' personal life offers a glimpse into the man behind the baseball uniform. Here are some interesting facts about his life off the field.

10. Means married his longtime girlfriend, Caroline Stanley, in 2019. Caroline is a former professional soccer player.
11. The couple welcomed their first child, a son named McCoy, in 2020.
12. Means is known for his charitable work, often participating in community events and supporting various causes.
13. He enjoys spending his free time with his family, traveling, and exploring new places.

Pitching Style and Techniques

Means' success on the mound can be attributed to his unique pitching style and techniques. Here are some insights into his approach.

14. Means primarily relies on a fastball, changeup, and curveball to keep hitters off balance.
15. His changeup is considered his best pitch, often fooling batters with its deceptive movement and speed.
16. Means has a smooth, repeatable delivery that allows him to maintain consistent control and command of his pitches.
17. He is known for his ability to induce weak contact, often resulting in ground balls and easy outs for his defense.

Challenges and Comebacks

Every athlete faces challenges, and John Means is no exception. Here are some of the obstacles he has overcome in his career.

18. Means experienced a setback in 2020 when he struggled with injuries and inconsistency, leading to a difficult season.
19. Despite these challenges, he worked tirelessly during the offseason to improve his mechanics and regain his form.
20. Means' perseverance paid off in 2021, as he bounced back with a strong start to the season, highlighted by his no-hitter.

Fun Facts

Let's wrap up with some fun and lesser-known facts about John Means that fans might find interesting.

21. Means is an avid golfer and often plays during the offseason to relax and unwind.
22. He has a dog named Wrigley, named after the famous Wrigley Field in Chicago.
23. Means is a fan of country music and enjoys attending concerts whenever he can.
24. He has a tattoo of a baseball on his right arm, symbolizing his love for the game.
25. Means is known for his positive attitude and strong work ethic, qualities that have endeared him to teammates and fans alike.

Final Thoughts on John Means

John Means has made quite an impact in the world of baseball. From his humble beginnings to becoming a standout pitcher for the Baltimore Orioles, his journey is nothing short of inspiring. His dedication, hard work, and perseverance have paid off, earning him accolades and a loyal fan base.

Means' story reminds us that success doesn't come overnight. It takes grit, determination, and a lot of practice. Whether you're a budding athlete or just someone looking for motivation, John Means' career offers valuable lessons. Keep pushing forward, stay focused on your goals, and never underestimate the power of persistence.

So, next time you watch a game, remember the name John Means. He's not just a player; he's a testament to what can be achieved with passion and effort. Here's to many more strikeouts and victories!