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Josh Bell 2022 Player Outlook: Expect A Solid Season With Potential For More
3 years agoWashington Nationals' first baseman Josh Bell bounced back in 2021 after a disastrous 2020 campaign. He reduced his strikeout rate from 26.5% in 2020 to 17.8% in 2021 and increased his xWOBA from .297 to .366. Overall, the 29-year-old slashed .261/.347/.476 with 27 home runs, 88 RBI, 75 runs scored, and a .823 OPS over 568 plate appearances in 2021. Bell's Statcast data shows that the Nationals' first baseman had strong plate discipline and was significantly better hitter against righties. His Hard Hit rate is 93rd percentile; fantasy managers can expect a solid season with the upside for more in 2022. Bell is under team control until 2023 and should have plenty of opportunities to drive in runs hitting cleanup behind superstar Juan Soto. Steamer is projecting the former Pittsburgh Pirate to slash .261/.352/.486 with 31 home runs and a .352 WOBA over 147 games. According to RotoBaller's Expected Draft Values, Bell's Steamer projection makes him excellent value at his current NFBC ADP of 135. The Nationals slugger should provide fantasy managers with solid power and counting stats at first base.
