The Phillies released Leon on Saturday. Leon was unable to land a spot on the active roster out of spring training, and after slashing .283/.358/.326 through 12 games at Triple-A, the 27-year-old will now attempt to find an opportunity in the open market. Felix Reyes was selected to the active roster in a corresponding move.
The Phillies optioned Leon to Triple-A Lehigh Valley on Monday. Leon had been in contention for a reserve spot in the Phillies' Opening Day outfield but was unable to distinguish himself in spring training, slashing just .231/.355/.308 with a 4:7 BB:K over 31 plate appearances in the Grapefruit League. The 27-year-old should be in line for an everyday role at Lehigh Valley and will likely rank near the top of the list for a call-up if the Phillies should have an opening in the big-league outfield at any point.
The Phillies claimed Leon off waivers from the Orioles on Friday, Francys Romero of BeisbolFR.com reports. Leon has now gone from the Astros to the Orioles and now to the Phillies via waivers this month. The 27-year-old was limited to only 25 rehab games in 2025 due to a nagging knee issue, though he was healthy by the end of the season. Leon slashed .299/.372/.514 with 24 homers and 29 stolen bases at Triple-A Sugar Land in 2024 and has minor-league options remaining. The Phillies have openings in their outfield, but Leon will likely begin the 2026 season back in the minors.