Long-time Rangers stalwart's MLB career could be over after Padres release

Right-handed reliever José Leclerc will always hold a special spot in Texas Rangers fans' hearts. He was one of the Rangers' top relievers through the dark years of the late 2010s and early 2020s before playing a key role on the 2023 World Series Championship team. Unfortunately, Leclerc's MLB career may be over.

The San Diego Padres released Leclerc on Monday after he posted a rough 7.77 ERA with a 2.01 WHIP over 24 1/3 minor-league innings this season. He underwent shoulder surgery in August 2025, which kept him sidelined until July. After being reinstated from the IL following a rehab stint, Leclerc joined the Padres' Triple-A affiliate, where he allowed 10 runs in 7 2/3 innings. His fastball averaged just 93.3 mph with Triple-A El Paso this season. At its best, Leclerc's fastball averaged 96.8 mph.

The Rangers called up Leclerc for his MLB debut in 2016. He immediately impressed, posting a 1.80 ERA over 15 innings. The right-hander had a solid 2017 season, recording a 3.94 ERA with 60 strikeouts over 45 2/3 innings. He absolutely dominated in 2018, posting a 2.56 ERA with 85 strikeouts over 57 2/3 innings.

Leclerc, 32, took a step back in 2019, posting a 4.33 ERA over 68 2/3 innings. Then, the right-hander threw just two innings in 2020 and missed the entire 2021 season after undergoing Tommy John Surgery.

After missing the 2021 season, Leclerc bounced back with a strong 2022 season, pitching to a 2.83 ERA with 54 strikeouts over 47 2/3 innings. In 2023, Leclerc had a strong 2.68 ERA with 67 strikeouts over 57 innings. He played a vital role out of Texas' bullpen during the 2023 postseason, posting a 3.29 ERA with 14 strikeouts over 13 2/3 innings. He had a 4.32 ERA over 66 2/3 innings in 2024, his final season with Texas.

What's next for former Rangers RHP José Leclerc?

After pitching for the Rangers from 2016-24, Leclerc signed a one-year, $10 million deal with the Athletics in the 2024-25 offseason. The 2025 season didn't go well for Leclerc, as the right-hander allowed six earned runs in just nine innings. He made his last MLB appearance on April 22, 2025, against the Rangers.

Leclerc should be able to land a minor-league deal this upcoming offseason. However, it's very possible he will never pitch in the majors again. Leclerc could also seek an opportunity overseas if he believes he cannot return to the big leagues.

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