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’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.

The Seattle Mariners reinstated right-hander George Kirby from the 15-day injured list ahead of his start on Thursday against the host Houston Astros.