Key Highlights
- Ryan Pepiot’s unironic love for Tropicana Field and St. Petersburg
- Pepiot’s transition from Los Angeles to Tampa Bay and his embrace of the community
- The Rays’ commitment to their home field and player development
- Community involvement through charitable work and public appearances
Ryan Pepiot: From Trade to Triumph
Florida man, indeed. Ryan Pepiot is a 28-year-old right-hander who found himself in the spotlight after a trade from the Dodgers to the Rays in December 2023. His journey from an out-of-town pitcher to a beloved figure within the St.
Petersburg community illustrates the power of relocation and community engagement.
Before the move, Pepiot had no strong connection to Tampa Bay; he’d only visited for spring break as a high school student. But once he joined the Rays, his wife Lilia was won over in just two days. The couple now resides year-round in St. Petersburg, with their condo overlooking Tropicana Field—a far cry from their previous life in Arizona.
The Trop and Beyond
For Pepiot, Tropicana Field is more than a stadium; it’s a sanctuary. “I cannot wait for air conditioning and my mound—no, the mound,” he quips with genuine enthusiasm. The tilted roof ensures a constant 72-degree start to every game, no matter the season or weather outside.
He’s not just content with his new home; Pepiot has become an active part of St. Petersburg’s fabric.
He co-hosted sports talk radio shows and supported local charities like Feeding Tampa Bay and GiGi’s Playhouse Tampa. His community spirit is a testament to the Rays’ commitment to fostering a strong bond between players and fans.
Building Community
The Rays have always emphasized player development, both on and off the field. Pepiot’s story highlights how a trade can lead to unexpected personal growth and civic engagement. His presence at community events, like Fan Fest and local charity functions, has made him one of the more public-facing representatives of the team.
When the NHL Stadium Series came to Raymond James Stadium in January, there was Pepiot alongside Junior Caminero and Ian Seymour. “I wasn’t missing that,” he says with a grin. His involvement shows the Rays’ belief in their players as community ambassadors.
A Love for St. Pete
“The Rays took a big chance on me, putting faith in my abilities,” Pepiot reflects. “I want to give back to that.” He sees himself not just as a player but as an integral part of the city’s identity. His words and actions have made it clear: there is no place he’d rather be.
From the sweltering early-afternoon starts in Arizona to the cool comfort of Tropicana Field, Pepiot’s journey embodies the spirit of community and growth that defines not just the Rays but St. Petersburg itself. The Trop might be a bit tilted, but for Ryan Pepiot, it’s perfectly aligned.