Former Padre Kevin Kouzmanoff Signs Minor League Deal With Miami Marlins

Former San Diego Padres third baseman Kevin Kouzmanoff is trying to find his way back on a Major League roster after spending all of the 2012 season in the Kansas City Royals’ minor league system.

September 16, 2011; Denver, CO, USA; Colorado Rockies third baseman Kevin Kouzmanoff after diving into the stands to catch a foul ball during the ninth inning against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field. Chris Humphreys-US PRESSWIRE

Kouzmanoff’s quest to crack the Majors will continue as he signed a minor league contract on Saturday with the Miami Marlins that includes an invite to Spring Training, Juan C. Rodriguez of the Sun Sentinel reports.

The 31-year-old Kouzmanoff was a fan favorite during his three years (2007-2009) with the Padres. When the Padres’ public address announcer named Kouzmanoff as the batter, fans would greet him with an elongated Kouuuuz.

Last year with the Omaha Storm Chasers, the Royals Triple-A affiliate, Kouzmanoff batted .262 with 31 RBIs in 56 games.

With the Class AA Northwest Arkansas Natruals, the Royals Double-A affiliate, batted .300 with two home runs and 15 RBIs in 34 games.

Kouzmanoff last  appeared in the majors in 2011 as a member of  the Colorado Rockies.

Here is how Kouzmanoff has faired in the big leagues:

Statistics Courtesy Of: Baseball Reference