35 years of baseball, big ideas & a whole lot of FUNN
Todd “Parney”
Parnell
Chapter 01 — Before the pants
A sports-loving kid from Locust, North Carolina.
Before “Parney” became a larger-than-life personality known for his wild pants, outrageous antics, and unmistakable energy, he was Todd Parnell, a sports-loving kid growing up in Locust, North Carolina.
A childhood trip to a Minor League Baseball game in Charlotte with his dad helped spark a passion that would eventually turn into a 35-year career dedicated to making memories, bringing people together, and changing the way people experience sports entertainment.
Chapter 02 — Unforgettable
Meet him once. Remember him forever.
If you've spent any time around Minor League Baseball over the last three decades, chances are you've heard of Todd “Parney” Parnell. And if you've met him, there's a pretty good chance you'll never forget him.
Part baseball executive, part entertainer, part motivational speaker, and full-time goofball, Parney built his career around a “start at yes” attitude, an insatiable love for people, and a simple philosophy of working hard. This philosophy led him to think differently, embrace creativity, and help people make unforgettable memories.
Chapter 03 — The career
Starting at yes.
A 1988 graduate of Messiah College, where he studied physical education and business, Parney entered the baseball industry in 1989.
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1989
Into the game
His early experiences, including time with the Reading Phillies, helped shape his trademark “start at yes” attitude, relentless work ethic, and belief that the best ideas often begin with a little craziness.
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1997–2001
VP & General Manager
Piedmont Boll Weevils, later known as the Kannapolis Intimidators. The franchise set attendance records in each of his first four seasons, earning him South Atlantic League General Manager of the Year honors in 1999 — proof that having FUNN and running a successful business could go hand in hand.
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2002–2008
General Manager, Altoona Curve
Seven seasons in Altoona, Pennsylvania, where the organization became a model for creativity, community engagement, and baseball entertainment — capturing three of Minor League Baseball's most prestigious organizational awards in less than three years. Parney also earned his first Eastern League Executive of the Year award in 2004.
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Alongthe way
Leader & mentor
Leadership roles with the State College Spikes, Myrtle Beach Pelicans, and Greenberg Sports Group, providing opportunities to mentor future industry leaders and spread his unique brand of entertainment throughout professional sports.
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2009–2023
Bringing baseball back to Richmond
In 2009, Parney helped bring Minor League Baseball back to Richmond, Virginia, launching the Richmond Flying Squirrels in 2010. What followed was another chapter filled with packed ballparks, unforgettable promotions, community partnerships, and plenty of ridiculous outfits. Richmond became one of Minor League Baseball's most successful and recognizable franchises, consistently ranking among attendance leaders while earning national recognition for its creativity and community involvement.
The trophy case
- 1999South Atlantic League General Manager of the Year
- 2004Eastern League Executive of the Year
- 2011Baseball America Minor League Executive of the Year
- 2013Eastern League Executive of the Year
- 2019Eastern League Executive of the Year
But his greatest accomplishments aren't necessarily found in trophy cases. They're found in the memories made, relationships built, and countless people inspired by his infectious enthusiasm.
Chapter 04 — Beyond nine innings
Never take yourself too seriously.
For decades, Parney has challenged baseball executives to think beyond nine innings, embrace the unexpected, and never take themselves too seriously. His influence can be seen throughout the sports entertainment industry, from traditional Minor League Baseball promotions to the wildly creative world of Bananaball.
Behind the goofy costumes and outrageous personality is someone who genuinely loves people. Whether supporting charitable causes, mentoring young professionals, or rolling up his sleeves to get the job done, Parney has always believed that making an IMPACT matters just as much as having FUN.
Chapter 05 — Now
Slowing down was never really the plan.
After more than three decades of nonstop work, Parney stepped away from full-time baseball operations in the fall of 2023. Today, he continues serving as Senior Advisor to his beloved Richmond Flying Squirrels while building his next chapter alongside his wife, Tonia, through Parney Time LLC.
Their ventures include the Parney Time Podcast, a forthcoming book, national speaking engagements, and projects dedicated to spreading FUN and making an IMPACT across the country.
Away from the spotlight, Parney enjoys making memories with Tonia and their three daughters — whether at home in Richmond or at the family's Sandbridge Beach getaway, appropriately named the 7th Inning Stretch.
After 35 years in baseball, one thing hasn't changed: Parney still believes every day is an opportunity to make somebody smile, do something different, and leave a lasting impression.
