The Mariners are playing a crucial series in Tampa Bay vs. the Rays this weekend, but after winning the first game on Thursday, Seattle blew a 4–2 lead Friday night to eventually lose 7–4. The game changed when Mariners starter George Kirby allowed a two-run home run to René Pinto in the seventh inning to tie the game.
However, Kirby told the media after the game that he doesn’t think he should’ve been pitching to Pinto in the first place.
“I wish I wasn’t out there for the 7th to be honest,” Kirby said. “I was at 90 pitches (after six innings) and I didn’t think I needed to go anymore.”
George Kirby was visibly frustrated postgame.
— Jake García (@Jake_M_Garcia) September 9, 2023
He gave up the game-tying two-run homer on his 102nd pitch.
"I wish I wasn't out there for the 7th to be honest."
Says there will be a conversation soon | #SeaUsRise pic.twitter.com/17XmheTb1O
Kirby has established himself as one of the best young pitchers in the league, posting a 3.44 ERA since he made his major league debut last year. However, in 27 games started, he’s only thrown over 100 pitches five times, including during Friday’s loss when he threw 102.
Steven Bisig/USA Today network
Seattle is currently in a stretch of playing games on 13 straight days, which could tax the bullpen if they aren’t careful, which likely explains why manager Scott Servais sent Kirby back out for the seventh.
The Mariners are just 0.5 games behind the Astros for first place in the AL West, and currently hold the second wild card spot by one game over the Blue Jays. They play two more games on the road vs. the Rays before returning home to play the Angels on Monday.
