Kirby has flipped from high-floor to riskier territory this season, allowing more earned runs and posting a higher walk rate (6.1%). Hard contact is up (avg exit velocity near 90 mph) and BABIP has climbed, making his upcoming tough matchup slate—like against the Astros—challenging for fantasy managers.

Kirby piled up 14 strikeouts in 6 1/3 innings, matching a career-high and fueling Seattle’s dominant pitching night as the team stormed to a sweep and West contention.

Kirby’s 14-strikeout gem in 6.1 innings (96.6 mph fastball) dramatizes his breakout potential and gives Seattle a reliable front-line anchor down the stretch. The performance blends velocity with location and confidence after prior rough outings, making him a high-upside fantasy option in playoff pushes.

Kirby’s mix is a risk-reward pick as he faces STL with a less formidable lineup than recent foes. His price reflects some volatility, but a quality start with a reasonable K count yields solid leverage in cash and GPPs given Seattle’s offensive support.

Kirby returns from the IL with two promising Seattle matchups; Seattle’s home confines bolster reliability. He’s been inconsistent recently but the two-start slate remains compelling given the favorable pairings and his track record.