Pirates' Josh Bell: Lackluster spring showing continues Friday

Bell, who went 0-for-3 with two strikeouts Friday, has two hits in 27 at-bats in Grapefruit League action.

Analysis:

Bell is simply piling up as many at-bats as possible since he got off to a late start following arthroscopic knee surgery in February. Pittsburgh is counting on the 24-year-old to serve as the team's primary first baseman. He could cede some time to John Jaso early on, as Jaso is a better fielder and has had a strong spring, but the first base job is basically Bell's to lose. There's also a long-range chance the Bucs could move him back to his natural spot in the outfield, but either way he's set for steady playing time.