On Tuesday at 7:05pm, hometown hero and Rye High School alumni George Kirby will return to his home city to pitch for the Seattle Mariners as they kick off the series against his favorite team growing up, the New York Yankees. With his humble beginnings starting at Disbrow field, Kirby has undoubtedly come a long way from his Little League debut, inspiring children in Rye and all over the country.
Kirby became a stand-out player during his time pitching at Rye High School. Leading the Garnets toward their first section championship win in thirty years back in 2014, the young player caught coaches’ eyes on a collegiate level early in high school.
Pursuing his academic and athletic career at Elon University, Kirby continued to excel on the mound. As a freshman, Kirby had an outstanding record, starting in five games and pitching in sixteen total games, striking out fifty-five batters in sixty-one innings. He continued to grow as a pitcher throughout his collegiate career, putting him on the radar for coaches during the MLB draft 2019. Kirby was chosen during the first draft round as the twentieth overall pick.
On May 8th, 2022, Kirby was pulled up to the major league, officially commemorating his professional career. He played his first game at T-Mobile Park in Seattle, Washington. Within the crowd were some of his best high school and college friends, including many Rye High School alums who wanted to support George during his debut.
A long-time friend of George and fellow Rye High graduate Liam Egan said that the day he saw George play in the MLB for the first time was the “best day of his life.” He also stated that he was “… incredibly proud of the person I had grown up with. George is not only a great player but an even better person. He is a true Rye gem.”
The May 8th game was just the start of Kirby’s incredible rookie season. Named Bleacher Report’s seventh-best rookie of the year, many individuals locally and nationally recognize his bright future and potential as a pitcher.
One game that stands out, particularly during his rookie season, was at Citi Field against the New York Mets. At this game, he had an even larger Rye support system than the one in Washington, including Rye High School teachers and faculty members, family members, and the families of his high school friends.
His mom and long-term Rye resident, Linda Kirby, excitedly stated, “We feel very blessed to be able to share our boy with this awesome Rye community and Garnet family!! Such an amazing outpouring of love and support from all.”
This network of fans that continuously support him is also eagerly planning on showing out again to watch him pitch Tuesday night at Yankee Stadium. As his mother mentioned, the support from Rye means everything to George. She recalls, “George is definitely feeling the love and support today and is excited to hear everyone cheer him on tonight at Yankee Stadium!!”
Tune in and watch George play tonight at 7:05pm.
