SARASOTA, Fla. – The first wave of John Means’ news in camp arrived on the first day, with executive vice president/general manager Mike Elias indicating to the gathered media that the former All-Star was a month behind the other starters and probably would begin the season on the injured list.
Nothing with the elbow that qualified as a setback. Just a lengthy delay in clearance to begin his throwing program.
At that time, the Orioles seemed to be aiming for an early April return to the rotation.
The next splash came earlier this week with manager Brandon Hyde confirming that Means wouldn’t pitch in an exhibition game.
The club is arranging live batting practice outings for Means, who also could start in simulated games on the back fields. But he’ll need to go on an injury rehab assignment before the Orioles activate him.