After making headlines in August as part of the Juan Soto trade from the Washington Nationals to the San Diego Padres, first baseman Josh Bell is now a free agent. After just three months with his new team, including a playoff berth that ran to the NLCS, Bell's contract expired without an extension.'
So, what happens now?
Bell made his debut in the major leagues on July 8, 2016, with the Pittsburgh Pirates. He was traded to the Nationals on Dec. 24, 2020, with whom he agreed to a one-year, $6.35 million contract for the 2021 season. Before the 2022 season, Bell signed another one-year, $10 million contract with the Nationals, which would cover his final year of eligibility for salary arbitration.
*ring ring* Josh Bell calling. #CaptureTheMoment pic.twitter.com/JR2Wq78GnZ