SEATTLE — In a dramatic highlight from the game on Tuesday evening, Seattle Mariners pitcher George Kirby was hit by a line drive during the team’s 5-1 loss to the Baltimore Orioles. The incident occurred in the fifth inning when a sharply hit baseball struck Kirby on his right thumb and mouth, forcing him to leave the field.
Speaking after the game, Kirby shared that he was feeling well, expressing that neither his hand nor his face was in pain, despite some noticeable swelling on the right side of his mouth. “I didn’t even see it coming,” he recounted. “I just put my hand up. Fortunately, it missed any of the critical areas on my face.”
The event unfolded when Kirby, with two outs, delivered a fastball to Orioles third baseman Ramón Urías. Urías connected with the pitch, sending it right up the middle, striking Kirby and leaving him with facial bleeding as he exited the field. The Mariners’ medical team attended to Kirby promptly, described as a “scary” moment by manager Dan Wilson.
Wilson elaborated, “It’s just so close, and you just hope for the best. He seemed a bit taken aback even while walking off, but managed to compose himself. There was blood from where it clipped his face, but I think he’ll be okay.”
Kirby did not return to the game for the sixth inning. At the time of his early departure, he had already thrown 95 pitches. Despite the sudden end, it was arguably his best performance of the ongoing season, especially as he came into the game with an 11.42 ERA from two outings after returning from the injured list.
Kirby’s starting position for the current season was hampered by inflammation in his throwing shoulder, which delayed his return until late May. Although this outing wasn’t without its flaws, Kirby was relieved to have only surrendered two runs in his five innings of play before being replaced by reliever Eduard Bazardo.
Reflecting on his performance, Kirby stated, “I feel great right now. Obviously, you don’t want to throw that many pitches in five innings, but I’m glad I feel really good after it. It’s a positive sign.”
Manager Wilson also expressed optimism, highlighted by Kirby’s positive attitude. They expect to conduct X-rays on Wednesday to fully assess the extent of the injury. Wilson maintained confidence in Kirby’s resilience, noting the pitcher’s reputation as a formidable competitor.
“George is a competitor. We know that,” Wilson emphasized. “Many times, challenges like these can make you stronger, and that’s what I expect from George. Hopefully, it’s nothing too serious and just a minor hurdle.”
As the team looks ahead, Kirby’s enthusiasm and determination remain hopeful signs for the Mariners despite the early obstacles in his season.