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 Thursday night against the Houston Astros. The right-hander was still encouraged in his return to the mound after a lengthy absence.

The long-awaited season debut of Mariners' All-Star starting pitcher George Kirby was spoiled by the Astros in a blowout.