Guardians agree to deal with free agent 1B/DH Josh Bell

The Cleveland Guardians have made a splash in free agency during the annual winter meetings taking place right now in San Diego.

After having a very quiet offseason in 2021, the reigning American League Central Division champions have added some much needed power to the offense.

Tuesday, the Guardians agreed to a 2-year deal with free agent first baseman Josh Bell. The deal is reportedly worth $33 million. There is an opt out clause included in the deal.

First baseman Josh Bell and the Cleveland Guardians are in agreement on a two-year contract, sources familiar with the deal told ESPN.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) December 6, 2022

The Guardians have been looking to add a bat who can also play first base. The Bell signing is also good news for Josh Naylor. Bell and Naylor and rotate playing first base as well as serving as the Guardians designated hitter. Naylor did miss some time in 2022 after recovering from his season ending injury in 2021.

Welcome to Cleveland, Josh Bell!#Guardians | #ForTheLand pic.twitter.com/apwOlf5YK2
— Cleveland Baseball Insider (@CBI_FanNation) December 6, 2022

Bell has spent his entire career in National League. He was an All-Star in 2019 as a member of the Pittsburgh Pirates when the mid-summer classic took place at Progressive Field in Cleveland. He has also played for the Washington Nationals and San Diego Padres.

Bell has a career batting average of .262, with 130 home runs and 468 rbi’s.