Fantasy Baseball: 5 MLB Prospects Who Could Break Out in 2017
Josh Bell, 1B, Pittsburgh Pirates
Why There's Breakout Potential
Unlike the other prospects mentioned, Bell actually doesn't have a problem with walks. After a tiny 3.0% walk rate in 66 plate appearances as a 19-year-old in 2012, Bell has never produced one below 6.9% at any stop throughout the minors.
While his big-league experience spans just 152 plate appearances, it's encouraging to see a rookie draw walks more often (13.8%) than he strikes out (12.5%).
That keen eye helped him produce a .370 on-base percentage through 2,359 plate appearances in the minors, along with an impressive .273/.368/.406 triple slash with the Pirates. Pittsburgh is also projected to give Bell a shot at first base, with John Jaso shifting to the bench, per Roster Resource.
Why it Might Not Happen
Bell has the raw tools to be a 25-plus-homer hitter, but it hasn't been unleashed yet in the way we've seen with Renfroe. However, the 24-year-old is trending up at the right time according to his minor-league production.
| Year | PAs | Home Runs | Doubles | RBI | ISO |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2013 | 519 | 13 | 37 | 76 | .174 |
| 2014 | 465 | 9 | 22 | 60 | .134 |
| 2015 | 571 | 7 | 24 | 78 | .129 |
| 2016 | 484 | 14 | 23 | 60 | .173 |
The other concern is Bell's defense, as Law alluded to in his evaluation of him. This isn't something to worry about from a fantasy aspect, but since Bell is in the National League, he needs to play somewhere in the field in order to take advantage of his bat.
It'll be important for him to play adequate defense this upcoming year so the Pirates can justify keeping him in the lineup if he struggles at any time.
