Farnsworth moves up all-time appearances list

WASHINGTON -- With his appearance in Tuesday's game, Astros reliever Kyle Farnsworth moved into 27th place for all-time appearances by a pitcher. He has appeared in 891 games in his career, which is one ahead of Tom Gordon and seven behind Jim Kaat.

The Astros are the ninth team Farnsworth has played for in his 16-year career. He's been a reliever primarily in his career, starting just 26 times in his 891 games.

"It's hard work and determination just to play the game as long as you can," Farnsworth said. "The ability to just do it, not just a couple of years, but to try to be successful that long period of time and go out there and do the best you can."

At 38, Farnsworth is the oldest player on the Astros and keeps himself in great shape. He says he wants to keep playing as long as he's having fun. Another factor that helps his longevity is he's been on the disabled list only four times.

"I've worked hard day in and day out year after year," he said. "Maybe that's kept me around as long as I have, and I've tried to avoid injuries as much as possible. That comes from trying to keep your body in shape as best as possible and use the training staff and stuff. It's a long, strenuous year, and you've got to try to do the best you can to stay healthy."

Farnsworth believes he has a lot remaining in an arm that's thrown 987 1/3 innings so far in his career. When asked what he would still like to accomplish, that was easy.

"Win a World Series," he said. "That's what we all set our goals for, get on that stage. That would be the main thing."