Ryan Pepiot strikes out 11 as the Rays dominate the Orioles 7-1 on June 17. See how Pepiot's gem and hot bats from Lowe & Mangum extended the team's win streak.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
Another day, another dominant Rays victory. This time, it was Ryan Pepiot's turn to play the hero, mowing down the Baltimore Orioles with a season-high 11 strikeouts in a commanding 7-1 win on Tuesday night. It was a statement game that pushed the Rays' win streak to four and continued an absolutely torrid stretch of baseball for a team that is now 19-6 over its last 25 contests.
The Rays bullpen has now thrown 16 2/3 consecutive scoreless innings.
Ryan Pepiot was simply masterful against the O's. The right-hander was in complete control, allowing just one run on four hits over seven brilliant innings. He fanned a season-best 11 batters on just 98 pitches, earning the win to improve to 4-6. In his 15th start of the year, Pepiot looked every bit the top-of-the-rotation arm the Rays need to anchor their staff.
The offense provided plenty of support, starting from the very first pitch when Josh Lowe launched his first career leadoff home run. Brandon Lowe later added his 14th homer of the season, but the story of the night was Jake Mangum. The outfielder went 3-for-4 with three RBIs, extending his hitting streak to five games. His mix of scrappy infield singles and a hard-hit double has provided a massive spark from the bottom of the order.
As if Pepiot's start wasn't enough, the bullpen continued its unbelievable run. The scoreless streak was extended to 16 2/3 innings, punctuated by the much-anticipated debut of Forrest Whitley. The hard-throwing righty pitched a perfect ninth inning, retiring three straight Orioles to seal the victory. His seamless addition is a terrifying prospect for opposing lineups and another testament to the Rays' pitching factory.
This current on-field success is a direct result of the organization's long-term vision. The farm system remains one of the deepest in baseball, constantly churning out talent. The recent focus on collaboration between scouting and player development is already paying dividends, with prospects from recent trades and drafts like Theo Gillen, Aidan Smith, and Brody Hopkins making waves in the minors. The next wave is always coming.
Having won 19 of their last 25 games, the Rays are firing on all cylinders. With the offense clicking, a lights-out bullpen, and dominant starting pitching, they'll look to keep the momentum going against a tough Orioles team. This isn't just a hot streak; it's a statement that the Rays are a force to be reckoned with in the AL East.
