NEW YORK - Hard-throwing right handed relief pitcher Kyle Farnsworth has decided to announce his retirement just days after signing a 3 year, $17 million free agent contract with the New York Yankees. The reason? He's switching sports.
Farnsworth, who will turn 30 in April, says he will make himself eligible for the 2006 NFL Draft, which will be held April 29th and 30th in New York.
Farnsworth, who stands 6-4 and weighs in at 240 pounds, says he has always wanted to try a football career.
"I felt the time was right," said Farnsworth. "And if you disagree, then **** off."
Farnsworth, who will play fullback, says he has already started getting in football shape.
"I'm gonna get my 40-time down and whip everyone at the Combine," Farnsworth said.
In 415 career appearances (26 starts), Farnsworth was 23-38 with a career ERA of 4.45. However, he had his best season in 2005 while splitting time with the Detroit Tigers and Atlanta Braves, posting a 2.19 ERA in 72 total appearances.
Meanwhile, George Steinbrenner was seen shaking and mumbling "He turned down the Yankees" repeatedly and with deep conviction.
Farnsworth seems to be a good fit for the football field - the Kansas native has been involved in a pair of brawls - one in 2003 with the Chicago Cubs where he tackled a charging Paul Wilson and drew blood, and again in 2005 with the Tigers where he charged Royals pitcher Jeremy Affeldt, lifted him up, and then dumped him on the ground.
