### Mariners' George Kirby Faces Injury Setback Ahead of 2025 Season The Seattle Mariners are grappling with a significant challenge as their starting pitcher, George Kirby, is set to begin the 2025 season on the injured list (IL) due to inflammation in his throwing shoulder. This injury has raised concerns about the team's pitching depth and performance as they prepare for the upcoming season. Kirby, a promising right-hander and an All-Star in 2023, has been a reliable asset for the Mariners since his debut in 2022, making this his first stint on the IL in his professional career. The Mariners are taking a cautious approach, aiming to ensure Kirby's full recovery before he returns to the mound. ### Injury Overview and Team Response 1. **Injury Details**: - George Kirby is experiencing inflammation in his right shoulder, which has led to his shutdown from throwing activities [https://www.si.com/mlb/mariners/news/breaking-seattle-mariners-starting-pitcher-george-kirby-out-due-to-shoulder-injury]. - An MRI confirmed there is no structural damage, but the Mariners' management has classified the injury as "week-to-week" [https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6184957/2025/03/07/mariners-george-kirby-injury]. 2. **Impact on Season Start**: - Kirby is expected to miss at least the first two weeks of the regular season, which begins on March 27, 2025 [https://www.kiro7.com/sports/mlb/seattle-mariners/mariners-george-kirby-likely-open-season-il-due-inflammation-throwing-shoulder/ASDIRUEQGBB2RLYVPLKFSEVSME]. - The Mariners have not yet named an Opening Day starter, indicating potential adjustments to their pitching rotation [https://www.yardbarker.com/mlb/articles/all_star_pitcher_to_begin_season_on_injured_list/s1_127_41869504]. 3. **Management's Strategy**: - Mariners' general manager, Justin Hollander, emphasized the importance of addressing the inflammation to prevent further complications [https://www.espn.co.uk/mlb/story/_/id/44154572/mariners-george-kirby-dealing-inflammation-shoulder]. - The team is prioritizing Kirby's long-term health over immediate performance, reflecting a strategic approach to player management [https://www.seattlepi.com/sports/article/mariners-george-kirby-likely-to-open-season-on-20209248.php]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Kirby's Performance History**: - In 2023, Kirby had a record of 13-10 with a 3.35 ERA and 172 strikeouts in 31 starts, showcasing his effectiveness as a starting pitcher [https://www.yardbarker.com/mlb/articles/all_star_pitcher_to_begin_season_on_injured_list/s1_127_41869504]. - His 2024 season mirrored this success with a 14-11 record and a 3.53 ERA, further solidifying his role as a key player for the Mariners [https://www.yardbarker.com/mlb/articles/all_star_pitcher_to_begin_season_on_injured_list/s1_127_41869504]. - **Injury Timeline**: - The injury was first reported on March 7, 2025, with subsequent updates confirming the severity and expected recovery timeline [https://www.cbssports.com/mlb/news/george-kirby-injury-mariners-righty-will-begin-2025-season-on-injured-list-with-shoulder-inflammation]. ### Conclusion: Navigating the Challenge Ahead In summary, **George Kirby's shoulder inflammation presents a significant hurdle for the Seattle Mariners as they approach the 2025 season**. The team's management is taking a prudent approach to ensure his recovery, which may impact their early-season performance. 1. **Injury Confirmation**: Kirby's shoulder inflammation has been confirmed, leading to his placement on the IL. 2. **Expected Absence**: He is likely to miss the first two weeks of the season, affecting the team's pitching strategy. 3. **Management's Focus**: The Mariners are prioritizing Kirby's long-term health, reflecting a strategic decision to avoid exacerbating the injury. As the Mariners prepare for the season, they will need to adapt their pitching lineup and strategies in Kirby's absence, hoping for a swift and complete recovery for their star pitcher [https://www.si.com/mlb/mariners/news/seattle-mariners-manager-dan-wilson-gives-injury-update-on-starting-pitcher-george-kirby-].