The Los Angeles Dodgers invited over a dozen non-roster players to Spring Training, ranging from top prospects to other Minor Leaguers and even some with Major League experience.
Part of the latter category was former Philadelphia Phillies reliever Edubray Ramos, who signed a Minor League contract with the Dodgers over the offseason. Outfielder Connor Joe also reported to Camelback Ranch as a member of the Dodgers.
He made his MLB debut with the San Francisco Giants last season, recording just one hit in 15 at-bats over eight games. Joe was later designated by assignment and returned to the Dodgers as part of the stipulation of being selected by the Cincinnati Reds in the 2018 Rule 5 Draft.
Joe spent the rest of his 2019 campaign with Triple-A Oklahoma City and enjoyed excellent results, turning his success into an invitation to Spring Training.
The 27-year-old participated in a handful of workouts with the Dodgers but abruptly left camp before Cactus League play began due to a personal matter.
Joe has since announced on Instagram that he was recently diagnosed with testicular cancer:
Joe elaborated on his condition and revealed that he underwent surgery earlier this week. He is in good spirits, noting that he caught the cancer early in its tracks.
Joe has been part of the Dodgers organization since September 2017 after he was acquired from the Atlanta Braves in exchange for international bonus slot money. His professional career started with the Pittsburgh Pirates when he was selected by the organization in the first round of the 2014 MLB Draft.
Over parts of five Minor League seasons, Joe owns a .271/.377/.420 slash line with 103 doubles, 11 doubles, 43 home runs and 229 RBI in 2,036 plate appearances (495 games).
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