A pipe connector. The connector includes a body with opposed connection portions for connecting two pipes. A protective portion extends along at least a portion of an inside surface intermediate the connection portions. The protective portion includes a protective material that is less abrasive to a rod string than the body. An inside diameter of the connector along at least a portion of the protective portion is equal to or narrower than an inside diameter at other portions of the connector for preferentially contacting the rod string with the protective material over other portions of the body. The connector may include an extended gripping portion for gripping with power tongs, and may further include a reinforced portion for increasing resistance of the pipe connector to deformation when threadedly connected with a tubing joint with the connector.