George Kirby Faces Early Season Setback
PEORIA, Ariz. — The Seattle Mariners are facing a bit of a setback as right-hander George Kirby is dealing with inflammation in his throwing shoulder. According to General Manager Justin Hollander, Kirby is likely to begin the season on the injured list. "I would not anticipate that he’s ready for the first 10 days, two weeks of the season," Hollander said on Friday. This news is a blow to the Mariners, who were counting on Kirby to be a key contributor right from the start of the season.
MRI Reveals No Structural Damage
Despite the setback, there is a silver lining. Hollander emphasized that the MRI results were reassuring, showing no structural damage in Kirby’s shoulder. While the inflammation is a concern, the absence of any significant injury is a relief for both the player and the team. Kirby has been throwing the ball with good velocity, meeting the expectations set for him. However, he hasn’t felt as though he’s bouncing back from his outings as well as he should, which prompted the MRI. The Mariners are taking a cautious approach, planning to shut Kirby down temporarily to allow the inflammation to subside. He will be reassessed in a week to determine the next steps in his recovery.
Prioritizing Long-Term Health
The decision to place Kirby on the injured list is a strategic one, aimed at ensuring his long-term health and effectiveness throughout the season. Hollander stressed that the Mariners are focused on the big picture rather than just Opening Day. "We want to make sure we’re doing the right thing for the big picture of the whole season as opposed to worrying about Opening Day," he said. This approach reflects the team’s commitment to their players’ well-being and their determination to avoid any potential long-term issues. Fans and players alike will be hoping that this precautionary measure will get Kirby back to full form quickly.
Kirby’s Stellar Performance in 2022
George Kirby, now 27, had a standout season in 2022. He started 33 games, tying for the major league lead, and put up impressive numbers: a 14-11 record with a 3.53 ERA, 179 strikeouts, and just 23 walks in 181 innings. Kirby’s consistency and effectiveness were crucial to the Mariners’ success, and his performance earned him a spot on the AL All-Star team. His ability to strike out batters while maintaining a low walk rate demonstrated his exceptional control and command on the mound. Kirby’s contributions were not just statistical; his presence provided a boost to the team’s morale and confidence.
Building on Past Success
The 2023 season was shaping up to be another strong year for Kirby. He made 31 starts, going 13-10 with a 3.35 ERA. His performance was consistent with his previous year, and he continued to be a reliable pitcher for the Mariners. Kirby’s ability to pitch deep into games and his knack for keeping the opposing team’s offense at bay were significant factors in the team’s efforts to secure a playoff spot. His芯 performance in the last season further cemented his status as one of the top young pitchers in the American League.
Looking Ahead
While the Mariners will miss Kirby at the beginning of the season, they are well-equipped to handle his absence. The team has a deep and talented pitching roster, and other starters will step up to fill the void. Hollander and the coaching staff will monitor Kirby’s progress closely and ensure he returns to the mound in top condition. Fans and teammates are optimistic that Kirby will bounce back strong and continue his impressive career trajectory. The Mariners’ focus remains on their overall goals, and they are confident in their ability to navigate this early challenge. Kirby’s return to full health is a priority, and the entire organization will be supporting him every step of the way.
