The Tampa Bay Rays are facing a setback as pitcher Ryan Pepiot has been hospitalized for a knee infection. Pepiot has been placed on the 15-day injured list and will be missing the game against Toronto on Tuesday. The right-hander was admitted to Columbia University Medical Center to receive antibiotics for his right knee, which had been causing him soreness since the last day of the All-Star break. Despite the setback, Rays manager Kevin Cash reassured that Pepiot is doing well and is expected to make a full recovery, although it may take some time for the inflammation to subside.
Pepiot, a 26-year-old right-hander, has had a solid season with a 6-5 record and a 3.92 ERA in 17 starts. He was acquired from the Dodgers in a trade that sent Tyler Glasnow to Los Angeles in December. Pepiot’s last appearance on July 14 saw him pitch six innings of two-hit ball in a 2-0 win over Cleveland, showcasing his talent and value to the Rays’ pitching rotation. Cash is hopeful that Pepiot will be back in action as soon as he is eligible to return from the injured list.
In Pepiot’s absence, the Rays have recalled right-hander Tyler Zuber from Triple-A Durham to fill the void in their pitching staff. Zuber, who last pitched in the major leagues on September 30, 2021, missed the 2022 season due to a right shoulder impingement. After stints with the Kansas City Royals and Arizona Diamondbacks organizations, Zuber signed with the Rays in May and has impressed with a 3-0 record and a 2.49 ERA in 18 relief appearances with Durham.
Zuber’s journey back to the big leagues has been marked by perseverance and determination, as he worked his way through independent ball with the Long Island Ducks before earning a spot with the Rays. His impressive numbers at Durham, including a high strikeout rate and improved fastball velocity, have caught the attention of the Rays’ coaching staff. Cash praised Zuber for his strong performances and growth, noting that he has made significant improvements in his pitching repertoire.
As the Rays navigate through Pepiot’s absence, Zuber’s arrival provides a much-needed boost to their bullpen. The right-hander’s experience in the major leagues, coupled with his recent success in Triple-A, makes him a valuable asset for the team. With Zuber poised to make his first big league appearance in three years, the Rays will be counting on him to deliver solid performances and contribute to their continued success throughout the season. Despite the challenges they face with Pepiot’s injury, the Rays remain confident in their depth and ability to overcome adversity.
