Rays Sign Former Dodger Pitcher Amid Injury Setback

Veteran right-hander Michael Grove joins Tampa Bay roster after Ryan Pepiot's injury.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 8:27pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a baseball pitcher's motion broken down into overlapping planes of navy, green, and orange, conveying the dynamic and adaptable nature of the Rays' pitching staff.The Rays' signing of veteran pitcher Michael Grove reflects the team's depth and adaptability in the face of an injury to a top prospect.Today in Tampa

The Tampa Bay Rays have signed former Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Michael Grove to bolster their pitching depth after an injury setback for top prospect Ryan Pepiot. Grove, a 26-year-old right-hander, will provide additional experience and options for the Rays' pitching staff as they navigate the 2026 season.

Why it matters

The Rays have built a reputation for developing young pitching talent, so an injury to a top prospect like Pepiot is a significant concern. Signing a veteran like Grove gives the team more flexibility and insurance as they aim to return to the playoffs in 2026.

The details

Pepiot, a 24-year-old right-hander, was expected to compete for a spot in the Rays' starting rotation this season but suffered a setback in his recovery from an oblique injury sustained during spring training. With Pepiot's timeline for return uncertain, the Rays moved quickly to sign Grove, who spent parts of the last two seasons with the Dodgers.

  • Pepiot suffered the oblique injury during 2026 spring training.
  • The Rays signed Grove on April 16, 2026.

The players

Ryan Pepiot

A 24-year-old right-handed pitching prospect in the Rays' system who was expected to compete for a spot in the starting rotation before suffering an injury setback.

Michael Grove

A 26-year-old right-handed pitcher who has spent parts of the last two seasons in the major leagues with the Los Angeles Dodgers. He joins the Rays on a major league contract to provide additional pitching depth.

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What they’re saying

“We're excited to add Michael's experience and talent to our pitching staff. With the uncertainty around Ryan's recovery, having a proven major league arm like Michael's gives us more options and flexibility as we navigate the season.”

— Erik Neander, Rays General Manager

What’s next

The Rays will monitor Pepiot's progress and determine a timeline for his return to the active roster. In the meantime, Grove will compete for a spot in the Rays' bullpen or potentially the starting rotation.

The takeaway

The Rays' ability to quickly sign a veteran pitcher like Grove to provide depth and insurance in the wake of Pepiot's injury setback underscores the team's commitment to building a resilient pitching staff capable of weathering unexpected challenges throughout the season.