Bob Patterson, known for his role as a relief pitcher, spent over a decade in Major League Baseball (MLB). His career began when he was drafted by the San Diego Padres in the second round of the 1982 MLB Draft. However, it wasn't until 1985 that he made his MLB debut with the Padres. Patterson's time with the Padres was brief, and he soon found himself traded to the Pittsburgh Pirates, where he would spend a significant portion of his career.

During his tenure with the Pirates, Patterson became a reliable option out of the bullpen. His left-handed pitching style was particularly effective against left-handed batters, making him a valuable asset in late-inning situations. Patterson's ability to maintain composure under pressure allowed him to excel in high-stakes games, and he quickly earned the trust of his managers and teammates.

In 1992, Patterson joined the Texas Rangers, where he continued to demonstrate his skills as a relief pitcher. His time with the Rangers was marked by consistent performances, and he played a crucial role in the team's bullpen rotation. Patterson's experience and steady presence provided stability to the Rangers' pitching staff.

Patterson's career took another turn when he signed with the California Angels in 1994. With the Angels, he continued to be a dependable reliever, often called upon to face tough opponents in critical moments. His tenure with the Angels further solidified his reputation as a reliable and effective pitcher.

In 1996, Patterson joined the Chicago Cubs, where he would spend the final years of his MLB career. With the Cubs, he continued to be a steady presence in the bullpen, providing leadership and experience to a young pitching staff. Patterson's ability to adapt and perform in various roles made him a valuable member of the team.

Throughout his career, Patterson was known for his durability and consistency. He appeared in over 500 games, a testament to his longevity and effectiveness as a relief pitcher. His career statistics include a respectable earned run average (ERA) and numerous strikeouts, reflecting his ability to challenge and retire batters consistently.