Tom Patterson

Tom Patterson, born in 1845, was a notable position player in the early years of professional baseball. His career spanned from 1871 to 1875, during a formative period in the sport when the rules and playing styles were still evolving. Patterson played a total of 57 games, where he made a significant contribution to his teams with 52 hits and 22 RBIs. Although he did not hit any home runs, he showcased his speed on the basepaths with 3 stolen bases, reflecting the aggressive style of play that characterized the game in the 19th century. Patterson's career batting average stood at .21, a reflection of the offensive challenges players faced during this era, often referred to as the "deadball" period, where scoring was typically lower and games were heavily influenced by pitching and defense. Despite the limitations evident in his statistics, Patterson's presence on the field contributed to the growing popularity of baseball as a professional sport, helping to lay the groundwork for future generations of players. His involvement in the game during its early professional years marks him as a significant figure in baseball history.