Canaries Lock Up Powerful Infielder
Published on February 5, 2004 under Northern League (NL)
Sioux Falls Canaries News Release
(SIOUX FALLS, SD) â For INF Troy Farnsworth, 2004 officially has a chance to be what 2003 was supposed to be. After missing most of last season thanks to a broken wrist, the powerful veteran has re-signed with the Canaries for the coming campaign.
A veteran of six professional seasons, the Brigham Young University alum has posted at least 12 home runs in each full season he has played, including a career-best 23 long balls, playing for Potomac of the Class-A Advanced Carolina League in 2000. During that season, Farnsworth earned All-Star honors, leading the league in home runs and runs driven in (113).
The Canaries inked Farnsworth prior to last season and inserted him into the fifth spot in the batting order on Opening Day. Unfortunately, Farnsworth's season took an unexpected turn when he was hit by a pitch in the eighth inning of the season's first contest, forcing him out of action until the middle of August. Upon his return, Farnsworth initially struggled to regain his rhythm, notching only one hit in his first five games back, but caught fire over the final ten games, hitting .342 with a pair of homers and six RBI.
"It's unfortunate that he had the injury last season and it's disappointing that the fans didn't really get a chance to see the true Troy Farnsworth," Canaries Manager Doc Edwards said. "Troy has loads of talent, plays a good third base and has tremendous power. He will be a huge asset for us this year."
The 27-year-old Farnsworth was originally selected in the 32nd round of the 1998 draft by the St. Louis Cardinals, climbing as high as Double-A New Haven in 2001 and 2002. From 1999 through 2001, he averaged 20 home runs per season, averaging 87 runs batted in.
"Troy is the type of offensive talent that you can build an offense around. There aren't too many players in this league who have accomplished what he has," Canaries General Manager John Hindle said. "He is definitely a player that can elevate a club to the next level."
Edwards, Hindle and Farnsworth are all available for comment. Interviews can be set up by calling Julie Malmberg at (605) 333-0179.
The Canaries kick off the 2004 season on May 20 at the Birdcage against the visiting St. Paul Saints. Great tickets packages are now on sale and can be ordered by calling (605) 333-0179.
Northern League Stories from February 5, 2004
- RailCats Release Murphy, Templeton II - Gary SouthShore Railcats
- Impact rookies set to return to X's lineup - Sioux City Explorers
- Canaries Lock Up Powerful Infielder - Sioux Falls Canaries
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