José De León: Everything you need to know

De Leon became a free agent Monday. The Red Sox announced that De Leon had been sent outright to Triple-A Worcester on Thursday, but rather than accept an assignment in the minors, he'll test free agency. The 33-year-old appeared in only one game at the big-league level in 2025, allowing three runs on eight hits and three walks while striking out eight in 6.2 innings Sept. 28 against Detroit.

The Red Sox outrighted De Leon to Triple-A Worcester on Thursday. De Leon made one late-season appearance for the Red Sox but has lost his 40-man roster spot heading into the offseason. The right-hander has the ability to reject the assignment and become a free agent, but it's unclear what his plans are.

De Leon (1-0) earned the win Sunday against the Tigers, allowing three runs on eight hits and three walks while striking out eight over 6.2 innings. Making his first MLB appearance since 2023, the right-hander shook off the rust, allowing his only damage on a Javier Baez three-run homer in the fourth inning. The Red Sox turned to the 33-year-old with the AL East already decided and a Wild Card spot secured, but despite the long layoff, he cruised through the remainder of his outing and was effective enough to earn the victory.