The Arizona Diamondbacks reportedly acquired first baseman Josh Bell from the Miami Marlins on Tuesday, according to SportsGrid’s Craig Mish. Bell was placed on waivers on Sunday, opening a period where the Marlins could trade him. Miami is receiving cash considerations for the 31-year-old to help cover his remaining salary. The deal comes after consistent Arizona first baseman Christian Walker left Monday night’s contest with oblique tightness.
Marlins have traded Josh Bell to the Diamondbacks per source
— Craig Mish (@CraigMish) July 30, 2024
Diamondbacks Acquire Former All-Star Slugger From Marlins
Despite being placed on waivers this season, Bell still showed some spark this year in Miami. His average dipped to .239, but he smacked 14 home runs and recorded 49 RBI in 104 contests. He ranked second in Miami in homers and doubles (18) and sat third in RBI. His OPS+ of 92 is below league average, but Bell has been surging lately. He’s batting .429 with a 1.515 OPS and five home runs in his last seven matchups. Bell’s last week is the best stretch of his 2024 campaign.
Josh Bell hits his 5th HR in his last 6 games. 🔥 pic.twitter.com/qv2QdAiRcc
— MLB (@MLB) July 28, 2024
The trade marks the third consecutive year that Bell is dealt at the deadline. The switch-hitter moved from the Washington Nationals to the San Diego Padres in 2022. The following season, Bell was traded to Miami from the Cleveland Guardians. After being dealt, he played much better in 2023, batting .270 with a .818 OPS in 53 games. With the uncertainty surrounding the extent of Christian Walker’s injury, acquiring Bell provides a safety blanket for the Diamondbacks. Arizona marks the sixth team Bell has played for in his nine-year career.
The move comes after the Marlins’ horrid start to 2024. Miami currently sits at 39-67, good for last in the National League East. The Marlins started their selling nature early this season, trading Luis Arraez to the Padres early on. Since then, Miami has also moved on from outfielder Jazz Chisholm, starter Trevor Rogers, and reliever A.J. Puk. It’s not out of the question for the Marlins to continue dumping off pieces, with closer Tanner Scott generating interest around the league.
Main Photo Credits: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
