Josh Bell, a second-tier first baseman in the free agent market, signed a one-year, $6 million contract with the Washington Nationals. This move came as a surprise as the Nationals had recently acquired first baseman Nathaniel Lowe in a trade with the Texas Rangers. Bell, a nine-year veteran who primarily plays first base, had a productive season in 2024 with 19 home runs and 71 RBIs split between the Miami Marlins and Arizona Diamondbacks. He will likely serve as the Nationals’ designated hitter and provide depth at first base for Lowe.
Bell’s signing with the Nationals comes amidst a market headlined by Pete Alonso, who is seeking a reported $200 million contract and generating interest from multiple teams. The New York Mets, who can re-sign Alonso without sacrificing a draft pick, offered him a three-year, $90 million deal. Other notable first basemen still available include Anthony Rizzo, Justin Turner, and Ty France. Bell stands out for his power potential and now has the opportunity to return to a familiar setting with the Nationals, where he previously played from 2021-2022.
Throughout his career, Bell has been known for his slugging ability and has averaged around 21 home runs per season in non-pandemic years. He had a career-high 37 home runs in 2019 with the Pittsburgh Pirates and has been a reliable offensive contributor for various teams, maintaining a career .258/.343/.447 batting line. With the Nationals in need of an upgrade at designated hitter, Bell’s power at the plate could provide a boost to their offense and help address their struggles at the DH position, where they ranked 24th in slugging percentage in 2024.
Bell’s versatility allows him to play multiple positions, although he has primarily been utilized as a first baseman throughout his career. He briefly played in the outfield in 2021 with the Nationals, but has since focused on first base. His ability to handle both DH duties and spell Lowe at first base makes him a valuable addition to the Nationals’ roster. With Bell’s signing, the Nationals have addressed a key need and added a proven offensive performer to their lineup, enhancing their chances of competing in the upcoming season.
The market for first basemen is still active, with several notable players available for teams in need of a power bat. Bell’s signing with the Nationals gives him a chance to make an impact in a familiar environment and contribute to a team looking to improve its offensive production. As the offseason progresses, more moves are expected to shape the landscape of Major League Baseball, with players like Alonso commanding significant attention and offers from interested teams. Bell’s deal with the Nationals represents one of the early signings in a competitive market for free agent first basemen.
