Question: I was somewhat surprised that John Means decided to leave the Orioles, particularly given his injury status. Does Cleveland represent a better opportunity for him down the road? Or did the O’s not really show interest or pursue him for potential future pitching help? From: Stanley Snarski
Answer: Stanley, both Tom in Wyoming and Michael Janofsky also had questions about Means. I’m a big fan of John Means, personally and professionally, and it’s not guaranteed that Means can even pitch this season. When he had his first Tommy John surgery in April 2022, he didn’t return to the majors until September 2023.
He had a setback because of a shoulder injury that wasn’t related, but it seemed a long shot that he could help the Orioles this season. They also have Kyle Bradish and Tyler Wells, who had elbow surgeries around the same time Means did a year ago.
I think if the Orioles really wanted to sign him, they would have.
Question: Do you think a player like Mickey Mantle could hit in today’s MLB? From: Lou Gilbert
Answer: Lou, Mickey Mantle was my favorite player growing up, and I absolutely think he could hit in today’s baseball. Mantle was a five-tool player, and he had one of the best WARs of all-time, 110.2 and a fabulous OPS of .977.
I would argue he’d be better today because training is much better now, and his knees would have been better cared for, and the Yankees would have successfully insisted he rehabbed better.
Most weekdays, I’ll be answering at least one Orioles question. If you’d like to submit a question, send it to: Rich@BaltimoreBaseball.com. Questions may be edited for clarity, length and style.