[5][6] An all-league CCBL selection at catcher, it was reported that Connell "has all the requirements for a big league catcher and is at all times a steady, dependable player who has a pleasing personality to add to his ability as a ball player.

"[7] Connell made his major league debut in 1931, and played in six games at catcher for the Phillies during that season.

[9] On September 14, he singled and scored a run against the eventual World Series champion St. Louis Cardinals and pitcher Allyn Stout at Sportsman's Park.

The Cardinals, who boasted a lineup that included Baseball Hall of Famers Jim Bottomley, Chick Hafey, and Frankie Frisch, prevailed over the Phils, 13–5.

It came on September 27, when he caught Phils hurler Bob Adams and got a hit off Ben Cantwell in Philadelphia's 12–2 drubbing at the hands of the Braves in Boston.