From the Diamond to the Canvas: Tom Runnells Turns Baseball into Art

Some passions never fade, they simply evolve. This week on Community Star we spotlight Tom Runnells, a lifelong baseball man who has transformed his love of the game into a whole new form of creativity.

With more than forty years in professional baseball as a player, coach, manager, and instructor, Tom’s story is filled with legacy and love for the sport. When his time on the field came to an end, he found a new way to stay connected to the game he cherishes. Today he creates intricate works of art using used baseballs, honoring legends, teams, and the timeless stories that define America’s pastime.

In our conversation Tom shares how he “skins” old baseballs, using their seams, logos, and leather to recreate portraits and team insignias. Each piece carries the character and history of the game itself, turning something weathered into something enduring. Many of his works pay tribute to baseball’s greatest figures, including heroes from the Negro Leagues, serving as both art and education for new generations of fans.

What began as a creative experiment has grown into a mission to preserve baseball’s history in a deeply personal way. Through his art, Tom continues to coach in spirit, reminding us that passion, purpose, and creativity can keep a legacy alive long after the final pitch.

👉 Watch now to see how Tom Runnells turns the game he loves into artwork that tells its own story.

Watch The Tom Runnells interview now!