When the postseason lights shine bright, George Kirby has proven brighter. It’s why Mariners manager Dan Wilson named him the Game 1 starter of the American League Division Series. It’s why he was in line for last weekend’s do-or-die Game 5 with the Detroit Tigers, the spark in Seattle’s 15-inning instant classic. And looking back, it’s why Kirby threw seven shutout frames in a must-have 2022 ALDS Game 3 — when his archrival Houston Astros prevailed 18 innings later.

“Furious George” was one of four pitchers in postseason history to record 20+ strikeouts and two-or-fewer walks in his first four playoff appearances, joining the likes of Yu Darvish (2012-17) and Christy Mathewson (1905-1911). He owned a 2.70 ERA in his last six home starts of the regular season, more than comfortable in the

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