Pittsburgh Pirates, Josh Bell Avoid Arbitration, Settle For $4.8 Million

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) — Eight Pirates were eligible for arbitration Friday as the league year moves closer to Spring Training.

A few notable names avoided arbitration including All-Star first baseman Josh Bell, who settled with the team for $4.8 million next season.

“Per source, 1B Josh Bell and the Pirates avoid arbitration, settle for $4.8 million.”

Per source, 1B Josh Bell and the Pirates avoid arbitration, settle for $4.8 million.

— Mark Feinsand (@Feinsand) January 10, 2020

Jameson Taillon and Chad Kuhl also settled before entering arbitration hearings.

“Pirates have saved $1.735 million over industry projections by settling early with three of their eight arbitration-eligible players: Josh Bell, Jameson Taillon and Chad Kuhl.”

Pirates have saved $1.735 million over industry projections by settling early with three of their eight arbitration-eligible players: Josh Bell, Jameson Taillon and Chad Kuhl.

— Jason Mackey (@JMackeyPG) January 10, 2020

Later in the day, relief pitcher Michael Feliz struck a deal with the team.

“Source: #Pirates, Michael Feliz settle at $1.1 million, avoiding arbitration.”

Source: #Pirates, Michael Feliz settle at $1.1 million, avoiding arbitration.

— Robert Murray (@ByRobertMurray) January 10, 2020

Trevor Williams also followed suit moments later.

“Source: Pirates and Trevor Williams avoid arbitration, agreeing to a $2.825 million contract.”

Source: Pirates and Trevor Williams avoid arbitration, agreeing to a $2.825 million contract.

— Adam Berry (@adamdberry) January 10, 2020

As the day approached 2:00 p.m., the Pirates had just three players left.

“Pirates have three arbitration-eligible players left: Joe Musgrove, Adam Frazier and Keone Kela.”

Pirates have three arbitration-eligible players left: Joe Musgrove, Adam Frazier and Keone Kela.

— Jason Mackey (@JMackeyPG) January 10, 2020