Jose DeLeon, a former major league pitcher, passed away at the age of 63 in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. DeLeon played for various teams during his 13-season career, including the St. Louis Cardinals, Pittsburgh Pirates, Chicago White Sox, Philadelphia Phillies, and Montreal Expos. He was known for his impressive strikeout record, leading the National League in strikeouts in 1989.
Throughout his career, DeLeon accumulated a record of 86-119 with a 3.76 ERA in 264 starts and 151 relief appearances. He struck out a total of 1,594 batters in 1,897⅓ innings. Despite facing some challenges, including tying for the NL lead in losses in 1985 and 1990, DeLeon’s impact on the game was significant.
In July 1986, DeLeon was traded to the Chicago White Sox for Bobby Bonilla. While DeLeon’s time with the White Sox was relatively short, he made his mark during the 1993 postseason. He pitched in relief during the AL Championship Series against the Toronto Blue Jays, showcasing his talent on a national stage.
Remembering a Legend
Jose DeLeon’s contributions to the sport of baseball will not be forgotten. His prowess on the mound and his achievements, such as leading the NL in strikeouts in 1989, solidify his place in baseball history. As fans mourn the loss of this talented pitcher, they also celebrate his legacy and the impact he had on the game.