The Cleveland Guardians needed to add some power to their lineup.
After a very impressive season in 2022, that saw them make the ALDS, the Guardians are reloading.
Cleveland has come to terms on a two-year contract with first baseman Josh Bell.
He fits a need on their team and should be a big improvement to their lineup.
Here are a few things the Guardians should expect from their new first baseman.
Switch Hitter With Power
The Guardians were one of the worst power-hitting teams in the MLB last season.
Cleveland finished 29th of 30 teams with 127 home runs past season.
Adding a power hitter like Bell should allow them to get more production from the power department.
Last season, Bell hit 17 home runs and had 71 RBI.
While those numbers are not eye-popping, he struggled in San Diego.
His career high was 37 home runs in 2019.
If he can get back to 30+ homers, this deal could be a steal.
Josh Bell is a great fit for the Guardians. They needed a thumper in the middle of their order, and yes, a switch-hitter, a Cleveland lineup tradition.
— Buster Olney (@Buster_ESPN) December 6, 2022
Bell should slot into the lineup right behind Jose Ramirez.
Having back-to-back switch hitters like those two will cause problems for opposing pitchers.
Also, Bell can protect Ramirez, forcing teams to pitch to the perennial MVP candidate.
Fair Contract
The contract Bell agreed to is for two years and $33 million.
But, there is an opt-out after the first season in the deal.
It is a low-risk contract for the Guardians who might get elite production from Bell.
That’s a good deal for Josh Bell, who at the very least hits the ball hard, makes contact, and has a good eye at the plate. His best power always seems a tweak away, but he’s a good player.
— Eno Sarris (@enosarris) December 6, 2022
Yet, for some reason, if it does not work out, both sides can part ways after this upcoming season.
The Guardians have never been a big spending team.
But, they have always made the subtle moves that put them in positions to win.
They should once again be competitive in the AL Central this upcoming season.
