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Mariners' pitcher George Kirby faces backlash after postgame comment about his performance.
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Kirby, an All-Star and crucial to the Mariners' playoff hopes, voiced dissatisfaction with being kept in the game for the seventh inning.
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This led to strong criticism from former All-Stars and baseball figures on social media.
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Roger Clemens, Mark Mulder, Jered Weaver, Brandon McCarthy, Dallas Braden, and Doug Mientkiewicz were among those who criticized Kirby's comments.
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Baseball executives and scouts privately expressed their disappointment in Kirby's attitude.
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Kirby had thrown 93 pitches and had a 4-2 lead before the seventh inning, where he gave up a game-tying homer on his 103rd and final pitch.
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Kirby's complaint garnered significant attention and went viral on social media.
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Former players highlighted their disbelief at Kirby's reluctance to continue pitching despite being at 90 pitches.
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Some criticized the modern approach to player development, suggesting it might lead to similar attitudes among young pitchers.
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Kirby later apologized and acknowledged his mistake, expressing his love for competition and acknowledging his uncharacteristic behavior.
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