George Kirby Returns to the Mariners’ Rotation
Seattle Mariners right-hander George Kirby is set to make his season debut on Thursday night as the team begins a four-game series against the Houston Astros.
Kirby has been on the injured list since March 24 due to inflammation in his throwing shoulder. The 27-year-old’s return will strengthen the Mariners’ rotation, which is still without Opening Day starter Logan Gilbert, who is recovering from a right forearm flexor strain.
Kirby was an American League All-Star in 2023, where he made 31 starts and went 13-10 with a 3.35 ERA in 190⅔ innings.
After his injury diagnosis, Kirby made only one appearance in the 2025 spring training. He then made three rehab starts in Triple-A Tacoma.
Obviously, I’m eager for George to return. I know it’s been a long road for George since spring training. And you know, you put in the work, you do your rehab assignments, and mentally you’re ready to go.
Dan Wilson, Mariners manager
Wilson indicated that Kirby will likely be limited to “75, perhaps 80 pitches” against the Astros.
Before the end of Wednesday’s series against the White Sox in Chicago, the Mariners called up right-handed pitcher Jesse Hahn from Tacoma and designated right-hander Casey Lawrence for assignment.
Hahn will return to Seattle for the second time this season after two appearances in April. He has pitched four innings with the Mariners, with a record of 0-1 and an ERA of 4.59.
Lawrence threw five innings of relief on Tuesday in Seattle’s 1-0 loss to Chicago, allowing one run on six hits and taking the loss. He is 1-2 with a 4.08 ERA in 17⅔ innings and six appearances this season with the Mariners and the Toronto Blue Jays.
