LaRue, 34, was eligible to become a free agent after having served as catcher Yadier Molina's primary back-up this past season - his first as a member of the Cardinals.

"Jason was a great fit for our ballclub in the role that he served this past season," said Cardinals' Vice President/General Manager John Mozeliak. "His contributions carried not only onto the field, but also in the clubhouse and away from the ballpark, where he provided a good veteran leadership."

LaRue, 34, batted .213 in 61 games and hit four home runs with 21 RBI in 2008. He started 44 games, including 12 of the final 17. LaRue enjoyed his best month in June, batting .350 (14-for-40) with three HR's and 10 RBI.

A veteran of eight-plus seasons in the Majors, LaRue owns a lifetime batting mark of .231 with 92 HR's and 337 RBI in 842 games played with St. Louis, Cincinnati and Kansas City.

This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.