Kirby brings a refined mix of control and ground-ball propensity, key in a ballpark that can reward contact. His matchup against Holmes is a strategic chess move, with Williamsport’s atmosphere adding a narrative layer to the rhythm of his attack and the risk-reward profile of Seattle’s offense behind him.

Kirby was chased after five innings as the Mets offense paired hits with timely power, forcing Seattle to dip into bullpen. His early-season control and ability to pump strikes remain a fantasy consideration, but this outing exposed the risk for a short-term spike in opponent scoring.

Kirby faces the Mets in the Little League Classic, carrying an 8-5 record with a 3.71 ERA. Mets’ lineup struggles provide a potential edge for Kirby’s outs prop (17.5) and a pathway to a tight, low-scoring game that favors Seattle’s bullpen depth late.

Kirby owns an 8-3 mark with a 2.83 ERA, 0.98 WHIP and 9.7 K/9 across 76.1 innings in 13 starts since turning the corner. He’s surrendered just two earned runs in his last three starts (19 innings) and has shown strong first-inning control (3.00 ERA, .196 BAA). Against Mets at Citi Field, Kirby’s pedigree and form support a low-scoring night with a solid chance to push the scoreless first inning narrative.

Kirby brings a strong track record (8-5, 3.71 ERA) into the Williamsport rubber game, a crucial test against a Mets lineup that will push him to execute multiple sequences. His command and tempo will shape Seattle’s chances in a series-deciding night.