Miami Marlins Retain Star Slugger Josh Bell for 2024 Season

Miami Marlins Retain One of Their Biggest Sluggers

In a significant move, the Miami Marlins have managed to secure the services of one of their key players for the upcoming season, with a contract worth over $16 million.

This development comes as a relief to the team’s management, especially after their star player, Jorge Soler, initially declined the option to continue with the group earlier this week.

Soler, the designated hitter for the All-Star Game, made a notable contribution to the Marlins’ performance, hitting 36 home runs and 75 RBIs, with an impressive .250 batting average in 504 at-bats.

Josh Bell’s Impact on the Marlins

Josh Bell, the first baseman and designated hitter, made his debut for the Miami Marlins on August 2 against the Philadelphia Phillies, where he showcased his talent by going 4 for 5, including a home run.

During the same month, Bell maintained an impressive batting average of .280/.345/.550, hitting eight home runs and driving in 13 RBIs. Although his performance slightly dipped in September, with a batting average of .260/.330/.410 and three home runs, he still managed to contribute by bringing in 13 runs.

In just two months with the Marlins, Bell recorded 11 hits in 200 at-bats, placing him fifth in the team for total hits.

While Bell fell short in home runs compared to Soler (36 in 504 at-bats), Jazz Chisholm Jr. (19 in 352 at-bats), Bryan Dela Cruz (19 in 579 at-bats), and Jesus Sanchez (14 in 360 at-bats), his presence in the lineup was crucial for the team.

If the Marlins had lost both Soler and Bell, they would have faced the daunting task of replacing 47 home runs and over 100 RBIs.

Fortunately, Bell exercised his $16.5 million player option, ensuring his continued presence with the Marlins for the upcoming season, as reported by Jordan McPherson.

The Marlins secured the switch-hitting 31-year-old just before the 2023 deadline from the Cleveland Guardians.

The decision to retain Bell came after the Marlins’ elimination from the National League Wild Card contention, following a series sweep by the Phillies.

“I had a great time here, but I have to make decisions for my little ones and all that. We’ll see what happens, and I’m definitely excited for when that time comes,” Bell expressed during that period.

Josh Bell has opted into his $16.5 million player option with the Marlins for 2024, per @J_McPherson1126