Big League Brew: A Hometown Collaboration with Heart

At Bird Rock Coffee Roasters, we’ve always believed that great coffee does more than just taste good—it brings people together, celebrates community, and supports causes that truly matter.

That’s why we’re beyond excited to introduce Big League Brew, a limited blend made in collaboration with Connor Joe—a San Diego native, pro ballplayer, cancer survivor, and longtime Bird Rock Coffee fan. With every bag sold, we’re donating $1 to Livestrong, an organization that supported Connor through his cancer journey and continues to empower people affected by cancer today.

From Poway to the Pros

Connor’s roots run deep in San Diego. He grew up in Poway, played college ball at University of San Diego (USD), and was drafted in the first round of the 2014 MLB Draft after being named West Coast Conference Player of the Year and a Golden Spikes Semifinalist. But his path to the big leagues took more than talent—it took resilience.

In 2020, Connor was diagnosed with testicular cancer. He tackled it head-on, underwent treatment, and came back strong—returning to the field with the same drive and determination that got him there in the first place. Today, he’s suiting up for San Diego’s hometown team and using his platform to give back to a cause that matters deeply to him.

A Blend Built on Purpose

We created Big League Brew as a tribute to Connor’s journey—and to the San Diego community that’s been part of it from the start. The blend is smooth, balanced, and approachable.

Even better? It gives back. Every bag sold helps support Livestrong, an organization that’s been there for Connor and countless others navigating life with and after cancer.

Connor Helped Build This Brew

This wasn’t just a collaboration in name—Connor came out to our Morena Boulevard location earlier this year to join us for a cupping. Together with our Q Graders, Maritza and Jacob, he helped taste and select the coffees that make up this blend. As a true coffee lover and longtime Bird Rock Coffee supporter, his input helped shape Big League Brew into something that’s not only meaningful, but seriously delicious.

It’s the full-circle kind of story we love: a hometown player, a community-centered coffee roaster, and a shared passion for craft and cause.

Why Livestrong?

Livestrong played a pivotal role in Connor's story and is an organization he is passionate about. When talking with Connor and deciding on a blend and organization to donate to- Livestrong was first on his list. 

Established in 1997 with a mission to address the often-overlooked challenges in cancer care, Livestrong has supported more than 10 million cancer survivors. Notably, Livestrong played a pivotal role in establishing survivorship as a formal field of study in the cancer space. Livestrong’s empowering work includes programs to encourage physical activity after cancer treatment, assistance for people whose treatment affects fertility, and a library of information available for free online. Along with individual care, Livestrong creates and funds community programs that focus on the day-to-day concerns of survivors and works with policymakers and institutions to change how the world faces cancer. 

"We ensure everyone affected by cancer has the resources they need to thrive." Learn more about Livestrong or donate to them directly here: Livestrong.org

Brewing Something Bigger

Big League Brew is about more than coffee. It’s about honoring resilience, showing up for our community, and celebrating the local stories that bring us together. Whether you’re a diehard baseball fan, a coffee enthusiast, or just someone who believes in doing good—this blend’s for you.