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Washington Nationals hope to have solved first base problem with Josh Bell

By David Hill

PITTSBURGH, PA - SEPTEMBER 24: Josh Bell #55 of the Pittsburgh Pirates rounds the bases after hitting a two run home run in the fifth inning during the game against the Chicago Cubs at PNC Park on September 24, 2020 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin Berl/Getty Images)
PITTSBURGH, PA - SEPTEMBER 24: Josh Bell #55 of the Pittsburgh Pirates rounds the bases after hitting a two run home run in the fifth inning during the game against the Chicago Cubs at PNC Park on September 24, 2020 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin Berl/Getty Images) /
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In a surprise Christmas Eve trade, the Washington Nationals have acquired Josh Bell from the Pittsburgh Pirates for a pair of minor league pitchers.

The Pittsburgh Pirates were looking to blow up their roster and truly enter a rebuilding mode. Meanwhile, the Washington Nationals have been looking for a first baseman, as their internal options, and the players available on free agency, are underwhelming. With Josh Bell reportedly on the trade block, it appeared as though a deal could be made.

That deal came down on Christmas Eve. Bell is heading to the Nationals in exchange for Wil Crowe and Eddy Yean.

With two more years of team control, the Nationals are hoping that Bell can join with Juan Soto and Trea Turner as key pieces in the lineup. Although he struggled in 2020, the switch hitting first baseman had an impressive 2019 campaign, where he produced a .277/.367/.569 batting line with 37 homers and 37 doubles. If he can replicate that performance, the Nationals would have viable protection for Soto.

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This trade also gives the Nationals some certainty at first. They did not have a first baseman listed on their depth chart, and were faced with the potential of using minor league signees or a reunion with Ryan Zimmerman in order to fill that spot in the lineup.

Meanwhile, the Pirates get help for both the present and future. Crowe was a second round pick in the 2017 MLB Draft who sped through the system, reaching the majors last season. He struggled in his 8.1 innings, allowing 13 runs, 11 earned, on 14 hits and eight walks, striking out eight batters. While he is talented, Crowe has also dealt with back issues and may have an attitude problem, as he is said to make excuses for any poor performances.

Yean is the key to this trade for Pittsburgh. The 19 year old righty has just 90 innings of professional experience, and has yet to appear above low-A ball. He has a live fastball, sitting in the mid 90s, but can reach 97 MPH and should add more velocity as he matures physically. His changeup and slider are both considered above average pitches with the potential to improve as well. Although he is years away, Yean has the potential to be a top of the rotation arm in Pittsburgh.

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The Washington Nationals have solved their problem at first base, adding Josh Bell to their lineup. The Pittsburgh Pirates rebuild is well underway.

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