A transfer from Belmont Abbey College. Pitched for three seasons with the Jaspers before being recruited by the Minnesota Twins in 1971. During his time in Riverdale, Connor broke a strikeout record, taking down 20 batters in an extra innings duel against Columbia. Also known for pitching complete games, the right-hander maintained an ERA of 0.82 in 1971. His string of honors included selection to the St. John's University Centennial Tournament All Star Team, Manhattan's Most Valuable Player Award in 1971, and honorable mention from the NCAA NYC Metropolitan Conference All Star team and selection to the Outstanding College Athletes of America.

Connor began honing his coaching skills as an assistant under the Jaspers' coach, Dave Curran, while completing his degree. He pitched for the Minnesota Twins farm team, logging 57 strikeouts in 55 innings. When an injury derailed his pitching career, Connor continued to participate in the sport he loved as a coach. During his career he has coached at the University of Tennessee, both as an assistant and head coach. He also served as pitching coach for the New York Yankees, Arizona Diamondbacks, Toronto Blue Jays, Texas Rangers and Baltimore Orioles.