5. Josh Bell, first baseman, Pittsburgh Pirates
The secret is finally out on first baseman Josh Bell. Especially in the fantasy world. This isn’t that type of article, but he’s proving to be a favorite in all elements of the game.
The 24-year-old has been striking out more than he’d like, but he is displaying some power that he wasn’t producing last season. In 110 plate appearances in 2017, he’s slashing a .258/.345/.464 line with five home runs.
Bell is a switch hitter, which would typically up his value. But he really struggles against southpaws, hitting just .192 against those pitchers. However, he’s evening himself out at the plate in regards to his patience. He does struggle with swinging erratically, but since the second week of regular season play, he has increased his on-base percentage quite a bit.
Since last season, Bell has proven to be everything we thought he would be in a major league uniform — he’s powerful, makes contact and contributes beautifully to the Pirates lineup. Even after having knee surgery in February, he seems to be handling his body well and still remains one of the top first base prospects in the game.