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.

After only two seasons in the minor leagues, De Leon will be making his first career Opening Day start on Thursday evening against the Bakersfield Blaze. (Photo courtesy of baseballamerica.com)

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.