By Mallory Mattingly
In a new episode of the “Sports Spectrum Podcast,” former MLB first baseman Xavier Scruggs talked about how he learned to trust God after he left the major leagues.
“I continue to lean on faith, and I tried to lean on it. I’m not going to lie to you, there were times I’m like, ‘Wait a minute. I’m not playing anymore. How am I supposed to make the money that I was making, and how is my wife and how is my family supposed to still have that same lifestyle or something close to it?'” Scruggs explained.
He played for the St. Louis Cardinals in 2014 before heading to the Miami Marlins in 2016. He moved to the NC Dinos in South Korea for the 2017 season. Scruggs’ feelings about leaving the MLB aren’t surprising, especially after a career in pro sports and as a dad and husband who wants to provide for his family.
“It was like, there’s nothing coming in. But I see God showing me a little light here with this opportunity. Here? Okay, I’m gonna keep working. Maybe something else will pop up. I’m getting a few no’s. Oh, this is a yes over here,” Scruggs recalled about that time.
“God really showed me, ‘Just put your head down, and I will take care of the rest,'” Scruggs added. “And I think over time, I’ve learned that, and I don’t want to say it’s become easier, but it’s been better to navigate tough situations because I realize there are some things that I’m out of control of. I’ve just let God do what He does.”
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Today, he works as a baseball analyst for ESPN and the MLB Network.
Scruggs was recently invited to play in the MLB’s East/West Classic and shared several photos of himself in uniform on his Instagram account.
“I think I still got it 😜,” Scruggs began the post. “Grateful for the opportunity to play in MLB’s East-West Classic at Rickwood Field today!
“This year’s game continues to highlight history, bringing major league action back to America’s oldest ballpark one year after MLB’s Tribute to the Negro Leagues game which ultimately coincided with the death of Willie Mays,” he continued.
With his sports broadcasting career, Scruggs often spends his days in the gym, getting his work done and being a full-time dad at home.
“24 hours. 3 kids. 2 flights. And a game to catch,” he shared in a video on his social media. “Being a sports broadcaster/analyst means early lifts, radio hits, show prep, and red-eye flights. But it also means gymnastics with baby girl, watching Zeke shine at USF baseball camp, and catching his game the very next morning after a late night on-air in NYC.
“This life isn’t easy. But it’s full. It’s purpose-driven. And I know there are other dads out here grinding through tight windows, squeezing in every moment they can between the hustle. This one’s for you too,” Scruggs added.
No matter what life may throw at Scruggs, he continues to put his faith and trust in God.
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