Full Circle Moment: Baseball Pro Returns to TCU to Finish Degree

For college athletes, the path to graduation isn’t always a straight line or even always one that has a finish line. That is why former Horned Frogs catcher Evan Skoug had a plan and a promise.  

“I promised my parents and my coaches that I would return and get my degree,” Skoug said. 

Skoug fulfilled that promise this spring … after a few extra innings.  

Drafted in 2017 by the Chicago White Sox, Skoug played in the big leagues until retirement in 2023. He then returned to TCU to complete his bachelor’s degree in strategic communication.  

Coming Home 
When Skoug hung up his cleats, he made three phone calls: his wife, his parents and TCU head baseball coach Kirk Saarloos.  

“Evan Skoug is the epitome of TCU Baseball,” Saarloos said. “He was the backbone of three teams that made it to the College World Series. I’m so thankful he returned to finish his degree and to coach. He continues to give back to the program to which he has given so much.” 

As a student assistant coach, Skoug was a mentor and bridge between the current players and the professional world, a role that perfectly suited his experience and passion. He also provided a tangible example that TCU is a place where student-athletes can compete for championships at the highest level and get a world-class degree. 

Learning With New Perspective 
Though he left TCU the first time before completing his degree, the lessons Skoug learned on the Frogball field and in the classroom shaped his time in the minors. When he returned to campus years later for the Bob Schieffer College of Communication, he approached his coursework with renewed focus. 

“The material resonated more in all of my classes,” he said. “My experience made it easier for me to connect with what was being taught.” 

Courses teaching media relations, branding and audience engagement aligned naturally with his athletics background. And like on the field, he found a strong support system in his professors. 

One of the first people he reached out to was Ashley English, associate professor in strategic communication, who had supported his early decision to pursue the major leagues.

“Evan navigated the difficult balance between school and sports well and added so much value to our learning environment,” English said. “He was curious, creative and courteous, which helped our class feel like a true community. Even after time in MLB, he ensured he finished his primary task.” 

New Career, Same Drive 
Now, with a diploma in hand, Skoug is pivoting to a new challenge — a career in the energy industry. It’s hands-on work that draws on both his athletic background and his academic training. 

“I just want to give back to the people who made this place my family,” Skoug said. “I can’t thank them enough for helping me get here and succeed here.”