Brains & Brilliance on the Mound: Texas A&M’s Ryan Prager Crowned SEC Scholar-Athlete of the Year
In a remarkable fusion of athletic prowess and academic excellence, Texas A&M’s left-handed pitcher Ryan Prager has been honored as the 2025 Southeastern Conference (SEC) Scholar-Athlete of the Year. This prestigious accolade underscores Prager’s exceptional performance both on the baseball diamond and in the classroom, highlighting his status as one of the nation’s premier student-athletes.
Prager’s ascent to the pinnacle of collegiate baseball was marked by a series of outstanding performances during the 2024 season. As the Aggies’ ace, he delivered a 9-1 record over 19 starts, boasting a 2.95 ERA and a 1.05 WHIP. His 124 strikeouts were the ninth-most in Texas A&M history and the first time since 2021 that an Aggie pitcher surpassed 100 strikeouts in a season .
His dominance on the mound was further exemplified by his selection as the SEC Pitcher of the Week on May 20, 2024, following a stellar seven-inning, nine-strikeout performance against No. 2 Arkansas . Additionally, Prager earned recognition as a Preseason First Team All-American by Baseball America and was named to the Golden Spikes Award Midseason Watch List .
Beyond his athletic achievements, Prager has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to academic excellence. Balancing the rigors of a demanding sports schedule with his studies, he has maintained a high GPA, reflecting his dedication to both his education and his sport. His ability to excel in both arenas is a testament to his discipline, time management skills, and work ethic.
Prager’s leadership extends beyond the classroom and field. As a senior, he has been a mentor to younger players, guiding them through the challenges of balancing academics and athletics. His role as a leader on and off the field has been instrumental in fostering a culture of excellence within the Texas A&M baseball program.
Prager’s exceptional performance in 2024 did not go unnoticed by professional scouts. He was selected in the third round of the MLB Draft by the Los Angeles Angels . However, demonstrating his commitment to further development and his passion for the game, Prager chose to return to Texas A&M for the 2025 season, aiming to refine his skills and contribute to the Aggies’ pursuit of a national championship.
Ryan Prager’s recognition as the SEC Scholar-Athlete of the Year is a well-deserved acknowledgment of his outstanding achievements in both athletics and academics. His dedication, discipline, and leadership serve as an inspiration to his peers and a model of excellence for future student-athletes. As he continues to excel on the field and in the classroom, Prager exemplifies the ideal of the student-athlete, balancing the demands of collegiate sports with the pursuit of academic success.
