Pat Rapp's journey through Major League Baseball is a tale of perseverance and adaptability. Born on July 13, 1967, in Jennings, Louisiana, Rapp's professional career began when he was drafted by the San Francisco Giants in the 15th round of the 1989 MLB Draft. He made his major league debut with the Giants on September 10, 1992, marking the start of a career that would see him play for several teams over the next decade.
Rapp's time with the Giants was brief, as he was traded to the Florida Marlins in November 1992. It was with the Marlins that Rapp found a more stable footing, becoming a regular part of their starting rotation. During his tenure with the Marlins, Rapp was known for his durability and ability to eat innings. In 1995, he had one of his best seasons, posting a 14-7 record with a 3.44 ERA, which helped solidify his role as a reliable starter.
After his stint with the Marlins, Rapp was traded to the San Francisco Giants in 1997, where he continued to be a dependable presence on the mound. His time with the Giants was followed by a move to the Kansas City Royals in 1998. Rapp's career was characterized by his ability to adapt to different teams and pitching staffs, a skill that saw him move again in 1999, this time to the Boston Red Sox.
Rapp's tenure with the Red Sox was relatively short, and he soon found himself with the Baltimore Orioles in 2000. His experience and veteran presence were valued by the Orioles, and he continued to contribute as a starting pitcher. In 2001, Rapp signed with the Anaheim Angels, marking the final chapter of his major league career.
Throughout his time in MLB, Rapp was known for his work ethic and consistency on the mound. He finished his career with a win-loss record of 70-91 and an ERA of 4.67. While he may not have been a headline-grabbing star, Rapp's ability to remain a steady presence in the rotation for multiple teams speaks to his skill and determination as a professional athlete.
⚾