The Los Angeles Dodgers invited over a dozen non-roster players to Spring Training this year, ranging from top prospects to other Minor Leaguers and even some with Major League experience. Among those who reported to Camelback Ranch was Connor Joe.
However, his time in camp was cut short. The 27-year-old participated in a handful of workouts with the Dodgers but left camp before Cactus League play began due to what was deemed a personal matter.
Joe later revealed he was diagnosed with testicular cancer and underwent surgery in March. On Saturday, Joe posted that five months have now passed and he is cancer free. He thanked doctors and the Dodgers, and vowed to return to baseball.
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Joe made his MLB debut with the San Francisco Giants last season, though only appeared in eight games. He was 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 originally joined 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).
Health and safety a priority
While a different set of circumstances than what Joe has overcome, the Dodgers collectively are navigating the challenges of playing a regular season under new health and safety protocols brought about by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has given players credit for complying with the guidelines even as their routines and preparation has required adjusting. Roberts also downplayed any concern with the team’s upcoming road trip — their first of the season.
“I’m pretty optimistic,” he said. “Going from the airplane to the hotel, food will be delivered and brought to us individually on the plane. We’ll get to Houston and eat individually packaged meals there.
“I expect everyone to stay in the hotel and then go to the ballpark. And sort of go from the ballpark to the hotel, hotel to the ballpark. I’m encouraged. I think we’ll be fine.”
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