Pirates prospect Bell out 2-4 weeks after knee surgery

The Pittsburgh Pirates' season hasn't even started yet and they're already getting injury news.

The team announced Wednesday that prospect Josh Bell underwent surgery to remove a loose body from his left knee. They expect him to return to baseball activities in two to four weeks.

It's unclear whether he'll be ready for Opening Day.

In his first taste of big-league action last season, the former second-round pick fared well, posting a .273/.368/.406 slash line with three homers and 19 RBIs over 45 games.

As it stands, the team has Bell slated to be its No. 1 first baseman, though his backup, John Jaso, will likely get more at-bats to start the season due to the injury.

Bell is the third-ranked prospect in the Pirates system behind No. 1 Tyler Glasnow and No. 2 Austin Meadows.