[2] His Little League team was coached by his father, Juan Manuel, an amateur player known locally in Tijuana.

[1][2] Kirk began catching around age 12 or 13, when his team needed a catcher and his father encouraged him to try the position.

Kirk kept catching and eventually fell in love with the position because of how being catcher puts you at the centre of each game.

[1][2] Kirk was discovered by Toronto Blue Jays scout Dean Decillis at a showcase held by the Toros de Tijuana of the Mexican League.

[2] He made his professional debut with the Rookie-level Gulf Coast League Blue Jays in 2017, appearing in one game.

In 92 total games played, Kirk hit .290 with seven home runs, 44 RBI, and 56 walks against just 39 strikeouts.