Houston Astros sign Kyle Farnsworth
By Matt Fisher
Completely contrary to the story that I just wrote, and completely contrary to the rumors that Jim Duquette started (hey, he was write about Johan Santana with the Orioles), Kyle Farnsworth’s new team is in the American League.
Brian McTaggart of MLB.com has learned that the Houston Astros have decided to bring Farnsworth into the fold of their bullpen and outrighted Paul Clemens to Triple-A. Farnsworth had gone on record as hoping to find a team that would allow him to pitch against the Mets, who released him, but an opportunity with Philadelphia, who plays in the same division as New York, did not seem to speak to him.
Houston could insert Farnsworth directly into the closer’s role as they continue to wait for Jesse Crain to get back from surgery that has kept him out of action since last year. The Astros have been going with a revolving door at closer and Farnsworth would provide some sort of stability at the back end.
In 19 games with the Mets this season, Farnsworth earned 3 saves, but also earned 3 losses with a 3.18 ERA. The last time he was a full-fledged closer was in 2011 with the Tampa Bay Rays.
It should be noted that the Houston Astros will finish their season on the road against the New York Mets.