The wait was longer than anticipated, but TCU catcher Evan Skoug finally heard his name called in the seventh round of Tuesday’s MLB Draft, with the 207th overall pick.
Skoug, whose offensive output over the last several weeks has helped carry the Frogs to a fourth straight College World Series berth, has spoken openly about moving on to the pros after this season, mentioning that last weekend’s Super Regional series was likely the last time he would play at Lupton Stadium, a sentiment that has been echoed by Jim Schlossnagle throughout the season.
There are some concerns about his defense behind the plate, which is why some scouts believe he could change positions. But there’s little question that the junior has the offensive tools to be successful at the next level.
Skoug has batted .277 so far this season and mashed 20 home runs - including one in each of his last three games - and notably hit what ended up being the game winner in Saturday’s Super Regional opener. He led the Frogs with 58 RBI and a .562 slugging percentage.
The White Sox represent an opportunity to go home for Skoug, who is originally from Libertyville, Illinois. The Sox have had success with TCU players in the past - former Frog Matt Purke is currently in their minor league system.
Though Skoug was considered a possible first day pick, he is still in line for a $207,000 signing bonus. He will now have the difficult choice to make between pursuing his pro career or coming back to Fort Worth for a senior season. For now, his main focus is surely on bringing TCU a National Championship.
Congratulations to Evan!