Brittany Ghiroli, the O’s MLB.com beat writer, broke the news on Twitter:
Josh Bell recalled, Luke Scot to the DL. #Orioles
Brittany Ghiroli
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Bell is playing third base batting 7th. #oriolesBrittany Ghiroli
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I heard that Bell may only be up for a few days, but then I heard this could be long-term. If it’s for a few days, I’m fine with it. But if it’s permanent, I really don’t like the move.
The Oriole Way wrote a guest post a few weeks ago. After reading that post, I think it’s clear Bell isn’t ready for a promotion, and someone needs to make a decision on whether he’s a switch hitter or not. There’s no guarantee he’ll hit lefites better while batting left handed, but it’s something that should be tested. Bell’s AAA splits so far:
Bell couldn’t hit lefites at AAA, imagine how he’s going to fare in the majors…
Stats via Minor League Splits
I am glad that the O’s decided not to rush Pie back to the parent club.
From what Samuel said earlier today, this is a short term call up (unless, of course, he was “lights out”). Bell, himself, knows that he is not quite ready for the majors.
Since everyone is basically on the same page, it seems to be a win-win. Pie gets a bit of time to get in physical and baseball playing shape. Bell gets some big league experience and some valuable information to help him in his inevitable call up in September and/or next April. And, the fans can get some more interest over the next few days or weeks.
Well Zach Britton got a taste of the bigs tonight. 6 innings, 3 harmless hits, no walks, 11 groundouts and 4 K’s. Turn the 4-0 lead over to the bullpen in the 7th and sorry, Tides lose 7-5. At least now he knows how Brian and the other starters feel one step up.