Rise to Success: Career Highlights of José Leclerc

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 23, 2026

How José Leclerc built a successful career. Explore key moments that defined the journey.

José Ramón Leclerc is a Dominican professional baseball pitcher, currently a free agent, who previously played in MLB for the Texas Rangers and the Oakland Athletics. He debuted in MLB in 2016 and has played professionally since then.

Sections (2)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements

November 20, 2010: Signed with Texas Rangers

On November 20, 2010, Leclerc signed with the Texas Rangers as an international free agent.

2011: Professional Debut

In 2011, Leclerc made his professional debut with the DSL Rangers, achieving a 3–1 record with a 2.36 ERA.

2012: DSL Rangers Season

In 2012, Leclerc returned to the DSL Rangers, pitching to a 3–1 record and a 1.54 ERA.

2013: Hickory Crawdads

In 2013, Leclerc pitched for the Hickory Crawdads, achieving a 3–4 record with a 3.36 ERA.

2014: Myrtle Beach Pelicans

In 2014, Leclerc played for the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, finishing the season with a 4–1 record and a 3.30 ERA.

2015: Added to Rangers 40-man Roster

After the 2015 season, the Rangers added Leclerc to their 40-man roster to protect him from the Rule 5 draft.

2015: Frisco RoughRiders Season

In 2015, Leclerc pitched for the Frisco RoughRiders, struggling to a 6–8 record with a 5.77 ERA.

July 5, 2016: Promoted to Major Leagues

On July 5, 2016, the Rangers promoted Leclerc to the major leagues for the first time.

2016: MLB Debut

In 2016, José Leclerc made his Major League Baseball (MLB) debut.

2016: Season with Frisco and Round Rock

In 2016, Leclerc began the season with Frisco before being promoted to Round Rock.

2017: Opening Day Roster and First Save

In 2017, Leclerc made the Texas Rangers' Opening Day roster and earned his first career save on April 12. He later went on the disabled list on May 9 due to a sprained right index finger, finishing the 2017 season with a 2-3 record and a 3.94 ERA.

2018: Rangers' Closer and Pitcher of the Year

In 2018, Leclerc became the Rangers' closer and was named the 2018 Rangers' Pitcher of the Year. He produced a 2–3 record, 1.56 ERA, 85 strikeouts, and 12 saves.