Nick Patten enters his fourth season with the University of North Alabama baseball program in 2026 after earning a promotion to associate head coach. Originally joining the Lions prior to the 2023 season, Patten most recently served as hitting coach and co-recruiting coordinator through the 2025 campaign. In his time on staff, he has played a key role in developing the Lions’ offensive approach and supporting recruiting efforts as the program continues to establish itself in Division I competition within the ASUN Conference.
Before arriving in Florence, Patten worked alongside head coach Jad Prachniak at the University of Delaware, serving as a volunteer assistant coach in 2022. He also spent the 2020–21 academic year as an undergraduate assistant while completing his degree. As a standout player for the Blue Hens, Patten was a three-time All-CAA selection and a member of the 2017 CAA Championship team. A first baseman, he was selected in the 28th round of the 2018 MLB Draft by the Pittsburgh Pirates and played two seasons in the organization. Patten finished his collegiate career tied for sixth in Delaware history with 35 home runs, compiling a .279 batting average and 130 RBIs, including a .312 sophomore season in which he led the conference with 58 runs scored. A native of Butler, Pennsylvania, Patten brings both high-level playing and coaching experience to the Lions’ staff.
