Mariners' George Kirby Returns From Shoulder Injury Against Astros

Seattle Mariners ace right-hander George Kirby is set to make his 2025 season debut on Thursday against the Houston Astros, marking his first MLB start since September 2024 after being sidelined with right shoulder inflammation. Kirby, who was shut down in early March and recently completed a rehab stint with Triple-A Tacoma, is expected to be monitored closely with a pitch limit around 75 to 80 pitches for his return. His comeback provides a significant boost to a Mariners rotation that has struggled with injuries to key starters including Logan Gilbert and Bryce Miller, impacting their pitching effectiveness despite currently leading the AL West. Kirby has been one of the game's elite strike-throwers, leading the American League in fewest walks per nine innings in recent seasons and posting strong ERAs before his injury. Mariners manager Dan Wilson expressed optimism about Kirby's readiness and the positive impact his return could have on the team's pitching staff. The Mariners face the Astros in a critical four-game series, with Kirby slated to face Lance McCullers Jr., who is also returning from injury.