Todd Connelly McNeil Early Bio
Todd Connelly McNeil Early is an American professional baseball pitcher for the Boston Red Sox of Major League Baseball (MLB). He made his MLB debut in 2025 after being drafted in the fifth round of the 2023 MLB draft. Early has demonstrated significant potential in the minor leagues, showcasing impressive strikeout abilities and strong performances in his early career.
Early Life and Background
Todd Connelly McNeil Early was born on April 3, 2002. He grew up in Midlothian, Virginia, where he attended James River High School. Early’s passion for baseball developed during his formative years, and he excelled in the sport throughout his high school career. After high school, he continued to pursue his baseball ambitions by playing at the United States Military Academy and later at the University of Virginia, where he further honed his skills as a pitcher.
Path to Baseball
Early’s journey in baseball began at James River High School, where he showcased his talent on the mound. His impressive performance caught the attention of college scouts, leading him to play for the United States Military Academy and the University of Virginia. After a successful college career, he entered the 2023 MLB draft, where he was selected by the Boston Red Sox in the fifth round. Early’s transition to professional baseball began with the Single-A Salem Red Sox, where he quickly made a name for himself.
Todd Connelly McNeil Early Career
Early Career (2025)
Todd Connelly McNeil Early made his professional debut with the Single-A Salem Red Sox after being drafted in 2023. He spent the 2024 season splitting time between the High-A Greenville Drive and the Double-A Portland Sea Dogs. During this time, he accumulated a 10–3 record and a 2.60 earned run average (ERA) with 132 strikeouts across more than 100 innings pitched. His strong performance in the minor leagues set the stage for his promotion to the major leagues.
Breakthrough (2025)
Early’s breakthrough moment came on September 9, 2025, when he was selected to the 40-man roster and made his MLB debut against the Oakland Athletics. In this game, he struck out 11 batters in five innings pitched, tying the record for strikeouts in a Red Sox rookie debut, previously set by Don Aase in 1977. This impressive start solidified Early’s reputation as a promising young pitcher in the league. Later that season, he also started in the deciding game of the American League Wild Card series against the New York Yankees, showcasing his ability to perform in high-pressure situations.
Notable Works and Milestones
Todd Connelly McNeil Early’s signature achievement thus far has been his record-tying debut for the Boston Red Sox, where he struck out 11 batters. His early career has been marked by strong performances and a growing reputation as a skilled pitcher.
Todd Connelly McNeil Early Award Nominations
Throughout his early career, Todd Connelly McNeil Early has not yet received any formal award nominations, as he is still establishing himself in Major League Baseball.
Todd Connelly McNeil Early Awards Won
Todd Connelly McNeil Early has not yet won any awards, but his impressive debut and early career achievements indicate a bright future ahead in professional baseball.