**Kirby’s Tough Outing Spurs Mariners’ 7-3 Loss to Padres**
George Kirby’s night ended in frustration after a 97-mph fastball intended to overpower Manny Machado instead became a two-run homer, contributing to the Mariners’ 7-3 loss to the Padres. The home run turned a manageable one-run deficit into a significant challenge, making a comeback increasingly unlikely.
With Kirby’s departure, the Mariners struggled to overcome the Padres’ lead, which extended with Machado’s two-run single in the seventh inning. Seattle’s offense faltered despite numerous opportunities, finishing 1-for-8 with runners in scoring position and stranding eight runners.
The defeat further hampers the Mariners’ playoff hopes, leaving them 4.5 games behind the AL West-leading A’s and dropping further from the third wild-card spot. Manager Dan Wilson noted the team’s effort but lamented missed chances, as the Mariners fell to a 13-59 record in games where they score three runs or fewer.
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