Purdue University Northwest celebrates MLB pitcher Chad Patrick with jersey retirement reception

Purdue University Northwest (PNW) Athletics on Jan. 23 welcomed back one of its standout former baseball players with a historic jersey retirement reception. Chad Patrick, now a starting pitcher for the Milwaukee Brewers, was honored for his impact as the university’s first-ever former student-athlete to be drafted to a major professional sports league.

Patrick’s powerful throwing arm, paired with hometown pride and humility, has earned him his place in the major leagues. Friends, family, former coaching staff and many proud PNW staff members joined in an emotional celebration with Patrick as PNW Athletics officially retired his No. 31 baseball jersey.

Patrick hails from Hebron, Indiana. His resilience and determination throughout his high school and collegiate playing careers led to his selection by the Arizona Diamondbacks in the 2021 Major League Baseball (MLB) Draft. He was acquired by the Milwaukee Brewers in 2023 and made his starting pitcher debut during the 2025 season.

Dave Griffin, PNW’s head baseball coach and one of Patrick’s many mentors, saw Patrick’s raw talent early on that would one day lead him to the pros.

“Chad was bred to be a pitcher,” said Griffin. “However, I soon realized I did not have a pitcher on my hands — I had a thoroughbred. Yes, I was the pitching coach, but I was also playing travel secretary, because you can imagine how many teams were calling me, texting me and kicking down the doors to get to Chad. All I have got to say is, if I had to do it all over again…gladly.” 

Patrick’s legacy with PNW Baseball was one for the record books. Rick Costello, PNW Director of Athletics, recounted Patrick’s list of shattered records, stats and many accomplishments during his collegiate career. Patrick played for Purdue Northwest from 2018 to 2021. 

“Chad had an amazing impact on our baseball program and our university,” said Costello. “Chad rewrote the record book here at Purdue Northwest with 27 career starts, 13 complete games, 12 wins, a record five shutouts, 166 innings pitched and 211 strikeouts — all of which were the most of any player of all time.” 

Patrick’s senior year was impressive, as he amassed a whopping 97 strikeouts and went on to earn his first major league bid. Patrick is the first student-athlete in university history to be drafted by a professional sports organization. He was the 107th overall pick in the 2021 MLB draft.

Fast forward to 2025, Patrick had his rookie major league season as a starter for the Milwaukee Brewers. Despite his circumstances changing, his support system never wavered. Patrick, honored by the support of former teammates, coaches and university staff, emotionally thanked those in attendance.

Former teammate Anthony Agne cherished the time spent on and off the field with Patrick. Agne, now an assistant baseball coach at Purdue Northwest, recognized his talents from the beginning. 

“Chad was different,” said Agne. “His ceiling was extremely high, and his pitch ability was off the charts. As a teammate, Chad liked to keep it loose. He had quiet confidence in himself, but when it was time to go, it was time to go. As a teammate, he was as unselfish as anyone can be. He has always been humble, positive and rightfully competitive.”

Patrick embarks on the 2026 season soon, as he is set to report to spring training on Feb. 12 with the Brewers. He recalled growing up and playing baseball with his cousins in his backyard, only pretending to be major leaguers. Patrick thanked his coaches for the potential they saw in him from a young age. He believes that with dreams and dedication, reality can and will come to fruition.

“I am always grateful for the impact of my teammates,” said Patrick. “This jersey doesn’t just represent me, it represents all of us. It was my teammates pushing me to get through the last inning to get a win that was so desperately needed, or just getting me to go running or to the weight room. I’m so proud to have shared the field with you guys, and I’ll always cherish those memories.” 

Patrick thanked his family for every sacrifice, long drives, early mornings, and unconditional support. His path to greatness might not have been clear to him, but it was present in everyone around him.

“No matter what your goals are in life, you can achieve anything with hard work,” said Patrick. “It comes down to meeting the right people, remaining humble and believing without a doubt that your dreams are achievable. Even for a small-town, Indiana kid, all you need is the right mindset.” 

PNW Chancellor Kenneth C. Holford also shared his appreciation for Patrick’s shining example of success. 

“Tonight’s celebration is a reminder of why we do this work,” said Holford. “When students are supported, inspired and find a community that believes in them, they go on to accomplish extraordinary things. They become leaders, innovators, educators, professionals, and yes, sometimes professional baseball players. Chad, thank you for being part of the PNW story and for allowing us to be part of your lives. Your legacy will inspire future generations of student athletes who walk onto this campus dreaming big and working hard.” 

For more information on Purdue University Northwest, visit pnw.edu.