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.

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.