Red Sox sign veteran right-handed pitcher to MiLB deal; marking second stint in organization
The Red Sox have signed right-handed pitcher José De León to a minor league deal, according to his Instagram story. The deal was also confirmed by Francys Romero.
The veteran right-hander posted an IG video where he was looking for a new hat, insinuating which team he would be joining in 2025. De León grabbed a Red Sox hat, and the video was captioned, “We’re back in business.”
The Puerto Rican native broke into the game with the Dodgers, who selected the right-hander in the 24th round of the 2013 MLB Draft. He made his big league debut with Los Angeles, pitching in four games, posting a 6.35 ERA (6.97 FIP) and a 1.529 WHIP.
During the offseason in 2017, De León was traded to the Rays for infielder Logan Forsythe. He quickly became one of the Rays’ top prospects in their system at the time. The righty was traded to the Reds two years later for a player to be named later before he signed with the Red Sox two seasons later.
De León pitched in two games in the Sox’ lower levels, allowing two runs off three hits with four strikeouts over two frames. He’s also been a part of the Blue Jays and Twins’ systems.
His most recent big league action came two years ago with Minnesota, where he surrendered 10 runs, nine of them earned, over 17 1/3 frames. He also recorded 17 strikeouts while issuing five free passes.
De León has had two Tommy John surgeries, causing him to miss the 2024 season. The right-handed hurler began his comeback last winter, playing in Puerto Rico.
De León impressed Boston decision makers, and while he won’t make the Sox’ Opening Day roster, he should be an impact arm at Triple-A Worcester. He owns a 3.44 ERA over 199 Triple-A innings divided between six seasons.
De León has made 34 career MLB appearances with seven starts while owning a 7.44 ERA. The 32-year-old won’t be one of the first options if the Sox need an arm at the big league level but will be one of many that could pitch innings for Boston over the course of the full season.
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