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Ryan Pepiot Would be Happy to Come Out of the Bullpen This Year

Originally posted on FanNation Inside The Dodgers
By Patrick Warren | Last updated 8/20/23

Dodgers' starting pitcher Ryan Pepiot made his first in-game appearance since mid-September 2022 after suffering an oblique injury in spring training. Before his injury, he had earned the fifth spot on the Dodgers' starting rotation.

His injury lasted much longer than expected but he eventually was sent for a rehab assignment and excelled in Triple-A.

On Saturday, Pepiot made his return to a major-league game after almost 11 months. Because Hurricane Hilary forced the Dodgers into a doubleheader Saturday, they needed extra arms and called up the 25-year-old pitcher.

Pepiot performed well, pitching for 5 innings allowing just 3 hits and an earned run. The righty struck 5 batters out.

While Pepiot's 2023 role is undetermined now that he is healthy, the pitcher told Dodgers Nation's Doug McKain that he would be happy to help the team in any position.

"Whatever role they want me in, whether it's bullpen, spot starter, start every five to six days, whatever it is, I'm ready to take ono that role and take on that challenge," Pepiot said. "Postseason play is exciting and it's fun to watch, and I'd love to be a part of it."

(Via Dodgers Nation)

Pepiot, who took a perfect game into the seventh inning during his time in Triple-A this season, said that his experience in the bullpen could make him a viable option late in games.

"Yeah, I'd be open to it. I'm open to whatever role. Whatever I can do to help the team, that's what I'll do," Pepiot said. "I've pitched in the bullpen before. I pitched out of the bullpen summer ball in the Cape League, so I've had the experience doing it. And then the Dodgers do a great job on the player development side of having like an opener so you kind of get the feel of coming out of the bullpen. So I've done it plenty of times and if that's the role that I'm given, I'm gonna take it and run with it."

(Via Dodgers Nation)

Pepiot made nine appearances last season, holding a 3.47 ERA and a 1.46 WHIP.

This article first appeared on FanNation Inside The Dodgers and was syndicated with permission.

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