Columbia, MO - The Columbia College baseball team is proud to announce its third annual First Pitch Celebration. This event is set to recognize the programs alumni, the upcoming 2026 season, and to celebrate the storied success of Cougar baseball.

Date: January 17^th, 2026
 
Location: Southwell Gymnasium on the Columbia College campus
 
Tickets: $75
 
Schedule of Events:
5:30: Social
6:15: Dinner
7:00: Program
 
Registration Link: https://columbiacougars.com/sports/2022/6/8/special-event-tickets.aspx
 
Keynote speaker: Patrick Anderson, current AA minor league manager for the Springfield Cardinals (AA affiliate for the St. Louis Cardinals)
 
Patrick has spent his entire life dedicated to the game of baseball. He spent six seasons coaching college baseball at the Division 1 level before transitioning to professional baseball.
Patrick has spent nine seasons with the Kansas City Royals organization, nine seasons with the Washington Nationals organization, and the past three seasons with the St. Louis Cardinals organization.
 
Patrick's decorated professional career has seen him earn 750 wins, five playoff berths, two league championships, and two Manager of the Year awards. The 2025 season with the Springfield Cardinals was special. The team broke the franchise record for wins with an amazing 88-50 record while capturing the Texas League Championship. For his efforts leading the Cardinals to a record-setting season, Patrick was named Texas League Manager of the Year.  
 
We are blessed to have Patrick join us and share his incredible story. Most importantly, he has always made baseball about the kids and players. Please join us on January 17^th to meet the team, preview the 2026 season, and hear Patrick's message!

For guests who are looking for hotel accommodations, The Hampton Inn on Clark Lane in Columbia offers a Columbia College rate and can be reached here: (573) 886-9392 (3410 Clark Ln, Columbia, MO 65202)