November 30, 2015 by Chris Brown

Former redbird Xavier Scruggs signs minors deal with Marlins, thanks Cardinals & fans

By Chris Brown / STL Baseball Today | @cbrown_STLBBT | Nov. 30, 2015, 11:20 pm CT

STL Baseball Today File: Scruggs during 2015 Spring Training

As first reported by Baseball America’s Matt Eddy on Monday morning, the Miami Marlins have signed former Cardinals first baseman/corner outfielder Xavier Scruggs to a minor league deal. A few hours later, Scruggs confirmed the news, thanking the Cardinals organization and its fans on his Instagram account:

“First off I would like to say thank you to the Stl. Cardinals organization for providing me with the opportunity to chase and realize my dreams. Secondly, thank you to Cardinal Nation who have provided me with the upmost support throughout this journey and it will never be forgotten. Thirdly, thank you to all my Cardinal teammates who I have built lasting relationships with. You guys are family and always will be. Lastly, it with the most pride and sincerity that I announce my signing/new beginning with the Miami Marlins. I am excited to be a part of this organization and strive for the things that are mine for the taking. All glory to God.”

Drafted by the Cardinals in the 19th round of the 2008 amateur draft, Scruggs made his big-league debut in September 2014. In 26 regular season games over the last two seasons, Scruggs hit .246 with 9 RBIs and 3 doubles. In the minors, Scruggs has shown consistent power, slugging at least 20 home runs each season from 2010-2014 before a dropoff in 14 at AAA Memphis this past season.

Scruggs was a minor league free agent after being designated for assignment by the redbirds back in September to clear room for catcher Travis Tartamella on the 40-man roster.

Wishing @Xavier_Scruggs the best of luck with the Marlins. Good guy and a pleasure to deal with.

— Jim Hayes (@TheCatOnFox) November 30, 2015

Best of luck to @Xavier_Scruggs in his new adventure with the Marlins. The Memphis front office will miss you.

— Craig Unger (@MemphisGM) November 30, 2015