Teams might receive an enhancement during the playoff period, referred to as the All-Star boost.
Cleveland Guardians Anticipate John Means' Return in September
John Means, the former All-Star pitcher, is expected to return to the Cleveland Guardians later this year, according to MLB.com. The left-handed starter has been sidelined since undergoing left elbow UCL surgery in March, but he's making significant strides in his recovery.
The most specific projection for Means' return is in September 2025. This timeline aligns with typical post-Tommy John surgery returns, and his recent activity supports this. On August 13, Means threw a bullpen session, and he recently pitched two innings in a simulated "bridge" game start on August 9.
The Guardians are optimistic about Means contributing in their postseason push. His potential role could be either in the bullpen or as a starting pitcher, depending on team needs.
The Guardians' rotation has been inexperienced and lacks consistency this season. Tanner Bibee, their ace, has struggled, while Slade Cecconi and Gavin Williams have pitched well for the most part. Manager Stephen Vogt might consider adding Means to the rotation to bolster their pitching staff.
The Guardians are currently one and a half games back of an American League Wild Card spot. They're six games behind the Detroit Tigers in the American League Central standings. A veteran pitcher like Means, despite his recovery from surgery and lack of 2025 pitching, could significantly impact a potential postseason run.
Logan Allen and Joey Cantillo have had ups and downs in their performances this season. The Guardians ball club is currently at 59-55.
It remains unclear how effective Means will be after coming back from elbow surgery. However, his return could provide a much-needed boost to the team's pitching staff. Means was an All-Star in 2019 with the Baltimore Orioles, and his experience and talent could prove invaluable in the final stretch of the 2025 season.
The specific return date for Means is yet to be revealed, but barring any setbacks, he is expected to pitch at some point later in the 2025 campaign. As of now, Means is reportedly throwing live batting practice, indicating that he's on the right track to returning to the mound.
With Means' return on the horizon, the Guardians are hoping to secure a spot in the postseason and make a run for the championship. Fans and analysts alike are eagerly awaiting his return to the team.
Sports enthusiasts eagerly await John Means' return to the baseball field, as he recovers from injuries sustained earlier in the year. Given Means' history as an All-Star pitcher and his recent progress in recovery, his comeback in September could significantly minimize injuries to the Cleveland Guardians' pitching staff.
