Seattle’s George Kirby didn’t get the results he wanted in his season debut against the Houston Astros but was still encouraged in his return to the mound after a lengthy absence.

George Kirby’s return to the mound ended in a loss and Julio Rodríguez was scratched from the lineup as the Mariners were thumped by the Astros.

Seattle Mariners right-hander George Kirby struggled in a 9-2 loss to the Houston Astros on Thursday. Kirby allowed five runs on six hits over 3 2/3 innings of work while striking out four and walking one.