ThinkBlueLA has learned that Dodgers Top-10 pitching prospect Jose De Leon has been named as the Opening Day starting pitcher for the Advanced Single-A Rancho Cucamonga Quakes when the team kicks off its 2015 season on Thursday, April 9 against the Bakersfield Blaze (Mariners) at historic Sam Lynn Ballpark in Bakersfield.
De Leon, who had a sensational season in 2014 splitting time between the Ogden Raptors of the Pioneer Rookie League and the Great Lakes Loons of the Low Single-A Midwest League, posted a phenomenal 7-0 record and a 2.22 ERA, with 119 strikeouts in 77.0 innings pitched. Included in that run was his remarkable performance on August 19, 2014 when he set a new franchise record of 14 strikeouts, breaking the previous record of 12 set by Clayton Kershaw in 2007.
ThinkBlueLA did an exclusive interview with the 22-year-old Puerto Rico native just last week in which De Leon credits his family, especially his late grandfather, for his success.
“My biggest fan is my grandpa, that’s who I pitch for,” De Leon said. “When I pitch I always write ‘Abu,’ it’s short for Abuello, and he’s always there with me. That’s the guy I pitch for.”
First pitch is scheduled for 7:15 pm.
The Quakes Home Opener will take place exactly one week later, on Thursday, April 16, at LoanMart Field against the Lake Elsinore Storm (Padres) at 7:05 pm. Tickets are still available through the Quakes website.
Congrats to former @ogdenraptors P @J_DeLeon18 on being named @RCQuakes opening day starter! Flying up the @Dodgers system!