Josh Bell named to Futures Game

Just like years of the past, the Pittsburgh Pirates will be represented in MLB’s Futures Game, this time by outfielder Josh Bell.

The former second-round pick is having a monster season at High-A Bradenton.

Bell had a decent 2013 season with the West Virginia Power, but has seemed to really put it all together this season with a .335/.385/.518 slash line, hitting nine homers while driving in 47 runs in 272 at bats.

He should make his way to Double-A this season and potentially Triple-A next, but will it be in the Pirates organization?

Naturally Bell’s path to Pittsburgh is blocked by the likes of Starling Marte, Andrew McCutchen and Gregory Polanco. That alone should make him a serious trade candidate and someone that Neil Huntington could seriously dangle as bait to potentially land a big piece at the trade deadline.

For now though Bell is a Pirate and his selection to the Futures Game is something that should be acknowledged.

Bell, the Pirates sixth ranked prospect in the organization, is leading the Florida State League with 141 total bases, ranks second in slugging percentage (.518) and hits (91), is third in batting average and is tied for third in extra-base hits (29) and RBIs. He is also hitting .427 (32-for-75) with a 1.189 OPS in June.

The Futures Game will take place at Minnesota’s Target Field on July 13. You can watch Bell and the rest of MLB’s future stars on MLB Network at 5 p.m. ET.