The Mariners were unable to hold an early lead as the Astros got to the former All-Star pitcher in his first game back from a shoulder injury.

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.

Mariners center fielder Julio Rodriguez was scratched about 30 minutes before Thursday's series opener against the Astros.

Preview the May 22 matchup between the Seattle Mariners and Houston Astros with odds over/under, game spread, betting lines and more.

The Astros have sort of limped along in the muddy middle of the American League standings. As recently as May 14, they were a game behind the Mariners in the AL West, but they’re now 3.5 games back after going 3-4 since that date.

The series opener against the host Houston Astros on Thursday resulted in a loss for the Mariners as a team, but the Seattle rotation took a step forward.

Preview the May 22 matchup between the Seattle Mariners and Houston Astros with recent trends, how to watch, livestream info, and more.

Find out how to watch the Houston Astros vs. Seattle Mariners series, with TV channel info, live streaming options, game times, probable starting

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The Seattle Mariners are about to finish up their 10-game road trip with four games in Houston against the Astros, and Houston is dealing with another big injury to its starting rotation.