Bell Reaches Milestones in Anaheim
Minnesota Twins designated hitter Josh Bell hit a three-run home run during a game against the Los Angeles Angels on Sunday afternoon in Anaheim, marking his 56th homer of the season. The blast gave Minnesota a 7-1 lead in the seventh inning.
Bell connected off Angels pitcher Grant Wolfram, launching a 407-foot ball off a 95.8 mph four-seamer. This home run followed earlier at-bats in the same game where Bell faced a 96.6 mph pitch and an 85.7 mph curveball.
The homer contributed to Bell driving in his 91st run of the season, according to Sports Illustrated. The total ranks as the seventh-highest in the American League and ties for 16th among all Major League Baseball players.
Historical Context for Twins Offense
Bell’s production places him in rare company within franchise history. The last Minnesota Twins player to finish a regular season with more than 90 RBIs was Eddie Rosario, who recorded 42 runs during the shortened 2020 pandemic season.
In full 162-game seasons, the previous Twins players to reach the top tier of RBI production were Rosario and Nelson Cruz. Both players finished with over 100 RBIs in 2019, with Rosario recording 109 and Cruz recording 108.
For Bell personally, the 91 RBIs represent the second-highest total of his career. He previously recorded 116 RBIs while playing for the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2019.
Performance Metrics and Recent Form
Bell’s offensive output has been consistent throughout the season. He holds a weighted on-base average plus (wRC+) of 109, with only one season below league average in his career: a 76 wRC+ in 2020 with the Pirates.
His performance since June 1 has been particularly strong. During that span, Bell slashed .281/.345/.471. He hit 15 of his 20 home runs during this period and led the Twins offense with 59 RBIs.
Bell currently holds a positive 0.8 fWAR (Wins Above Replacement) for the season.
Looking Ahead to 2027
The Twins must now decide whether to retain Bell as a switch-hitting designated hitter for his age-34 season in 2027. The decision involves weighing his current offensive production against potential regression and the development of younger players.
Young prospects Luke Keaschall, Brooks Lee, and Kody Clemens are part of the roster considerations as the team evaluates its future lineup configuration.