Countdown to Spring Training: LHP Chad Bell

1/7/2018
BY JOHN WAGNER
BLADE SPORTS WRITER
  • SPT-Hens7pWarm

    Chad Bell warms up before a start last year with the Mud Hens. The left-hander could again be part of the Toledo squad when the season starts in April.

    Blade/Katie Rausch

  • The Tigers will open spring training Feb. 13, which means baseball season is coming. Here is a daily look at players with possible ties to the 2018 Mud Hens, whose home opener is set for April 12 vs. Pawtucket. 

    LHP Chad Bell

    History: The Tigers traded for Bell early in 2016, and he posted a 10-4 record with a 3.70 ERA in 28 appearances for the Mud Hens, including 10 starts, that season. Last year the 28-year-old left-hander began the season with the Hens and was 2-4 with a 3.41 ERA in seven starts before earning a promotion to Detroit. In 28 appearances with the Tigers, including four starts, he was 0-3 with a 7.07 ERA.

    Future: Bell currently is on Detroit’s 40-man roster, which means he will compete for a spot on the Tigers pitching staff this spring. If he does not earn a spot in Detroit, Bell can be optioned to the Mud Hens. If that happens, it will be interesting to note if he is inserted into Toledo’s rotation or is placed in the Hens’ bullpen.