An example method of reducing loads on a connection shaft includes disengaging a connection shaft from a motor-generator such that the connection shaft is not rotatably coupled to the motor-generator. The method communicates a fluid away from the motor-generator through a communication path established within the connection shaft. An example turbomachine connection shaft is configured to selectively rotatably couple a turbomachine rotor and a motor-generator. The connection shaft establishes a communication path that selectively vents the motor-generator.