Ryan Pepiot Embraces Tampa Bay Life and Tropicana Field's Comfort Ryan Pepiot is looking forward to returning to Tropicana Field this season, a move that marks a significant change from last year’s games held outdoors at George M. Steinbrenner Field. After enduring several hot early-afternoon starts in the open air, the 28-year-old right-hander has come to appreciate the consistent 72-degree climate inside the Trop’s domed roof, which provides a stable environment for players. Pepiot openly expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I love the Trop. I know some people don’t like it. I love it. It’s fantastic.” His genuine appreciation for the Rays’ home stadium highlights his adaptation to both the facility and his role within the team. Pepiot’s connection to the Tampa Bay area has grown significantly since joining the Rays. Prior to his arrival, he had limited ties to the region. Born and raised in Indiana, he attended college at Butler University and began his professional career with the Los Angeles Dodgers. His initial exposure to St. Petersburg came during a high school spring break and a brief visit to a game at Tropicana Field, but his life was largely centered in Arizona during the winter months to stay close to the Dodgers’ training facility. After the Rays acquired Pepiot and Jonny DeLuca in a trade for Tyler Glasnow, the pitcher and his wife, Lilia, initially planned to rent a home in St. Petersburg while keeping their Arizona residence. However, after spending just a couple of days in the area, they decided to make the city their permanent home. The couple purchased a waterfront condo downtown, establishing St. Petersburg as their year-round residence with a view of Tropicana Field.#rays #tropicana_field #ryan_pepiot #st_petersburg #feeding_tampa_bay
