PITTSBURGH -- For all the questions the Pirates faced throughout this frustrating season, one answer emerged. They finally found their first baseman.
Josh Bell was a bright spot during a mostly disappointing year. He had a slash line of .255/.334/.466 with 26 home runs and 90 RBIs and silenced three preseason criticisms. After left knee surgery in February, would he hold up physically during his first full Major League season? Could the Pirates trust him on defense? Would he hit for power?
Yes, yes and yes.
Bell led the team with 159 games played.