Ryan Pepiot pitches 6 strong innings as Rays beat Angels 2

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) — Ryan Pepiot allowed one run and three hits in six strong innings, Amed Rosario hit an RBI triple in Tampa Bay’s two-run first and the Rays beat the Los Angeles Angels 2-1 on Thursday to split their four-game series.

Pepiot (2-2) struck out seven and walked three after having some stomach issues before the game. He was acquired in a trade in which Rays ace Tyler Glasnow was dealt to the Los Angeles Dodgers.

“Pretty strong performance,” Tampa Bay manager Kevin Cash said. “I didn’t think he felt that well going into the game. It’s amazing how sometimes people find out they got that extra gear. He certainly pushed it.”

Pepiot felt physically fine on the mound, but a little tired.

“I was going to take the ball no matter what,” he insisted.

Colin Poche, the third Rays reliever, worked out of a jam with two on and two outs in the ninth for his second save in three chances. Struggling closer Pete Fairbanks, who has a 9.00 ERA, pitched in the previous two games.