What's Happening?
The Seattle Mariners have successfully negotiated a $6.55 million contract with All-Star pitcher George Kirby for the 2026 MLB season, avoiding the arbitration process. Kirby, who has been with the Mariners for parts
of four seasons, had an All-Star campaign in 2023 with a 3.35 ERA. Despite a rise in his ERA to 4.21 in 2025 due to injuries, Kirby remains a key player in the Mariners' rotation, which includes Logan Gilbert, Bryan Woo, and Luis Castillo. The Mariners aim to build on their previous season's success, where they reached Game 7 of the ALCS.
Why It's Important?
This contract agreement is significant as it allows the Mariners to maintain stability in their pitching rotation without the potential discord of arbitration. Kirby's performance is crucial for the Mariners' aspirations to reach their first-ever World Series. The deal reflects the team's commitment to investing in their core players to enhance their competitive edge in the league. It also sets a precedent for future negotiations with other players, such as Logan Gilbert, who is also up for arbitration.
What's Next?
With the contract secured, the Mariners will focus on preparing for the upcoming season, aiming to capitalize on their strong pitching lineup. The team will likely continue to evaluate and potentially negotiate with other key players to ensure a robust roster. The Mariners' management will also strategize on how to leverage their pitching strengths to achieve a successful postseason run.
