Reports: Josh Bell returns to Nationals on 1-year deal to fill DH role

Josh Bell returns to Nationals as DH

Josh Bell is officially back with the Washington Nationals. The 32-year-old first baseman and designated hitter has agreed to a one-year, $6 million contract for 2025, according to MLB.com. The team has not yet confirmed the deal.

Nationals address offensive needs with Bell signing

The Nationals aim to boost their offense, particularly at first base and DH. Adding Bell and acquiring Nathaniel Lowe from the Texas Rangers this offseason addresses both needs. Bell brings switch-hitting power and experience, though his recent performance has been around league average. His OPS+ was 101 in 2023 and 97 in 2024.

Nats and Josh Bell have agreed to a one-year, $6 million deal pending a physical, source confirms. Bell returns to Nats after being acquired via trade with Pirates on Christmas Eve 2020 and then included in the Juan Soto deal with the Padres in 2022.@JonHeyman was first.
— Bobby Blanco (@Bobby_Blanco) December 30, 2024

Despite those numbers, Bell’s past suggests he can deliver solid production in a new environment. His previous stints in Washington showcased his ability to adjust, as seen in his 136 OPS+ during the 2021-22 seasons with the team.

Bell’s connection with Washington

Bell’s return also strengthens clubhouse chemistry, an area the Nationals prioritized this offseason. During his earlier tenure, Bell served as the Nationals Youth Baseball Academy’s Player Ambassador and was their 2022 Roberto Clemente Award nominee. His leadership could prove invaluable as the team continues to rebuild.

Recent performance and defensive concerns

In 2024, Bell posted a .249/.319/.405 slash line with 23 doubles and 19 home runs. His career average stands at 24 homers per 162 games, with a solid hard-hit rate of 42.1% and an 11.2% walk rate. These numbers highlight his value as a hitter.

Defensively, Bell struggled at first base in 2024, ranking second worst among qualified first basemen with minus-9 Outs Above Average. The Nationals likely plan to utilize him primarily as a DH, where his bat can be a stronger asset.

WELCOME HOME JOSH BELL 🛎️ pic.twitter.com/5G8PXcgbBR
— Talkin Nats (@TalkinNats) December 30, 2024

In 2023 and 2024, trades to the Marlins and Diamondbacks sparked a combined 118 OPS+ in the latter parts of each season. While his 2019 peak of 37 home runs feels distant, Bell remains capable of hitting 15-20 homers annually with an OPS above .800.

Nationals’ 2025 lineup outlook

With Nathaniel Lowe joining the team at first base, Bell fits into the designated hitter role. The Nationals’ projected lineup for 2025 includes:

SS: CJ Abrams (LHB)
RF: Dylan Crews (RHB)
LF: James Wood (LHB)
DH: Josh Bell (SHB)
1B: Nathaniel Lowe (LHB)
C: Keibert Ruiz (SHB)
2B: Luis García Jr. (LHB)
CF: Jacob Young (RHB)
3B: José Tena (LHB)

The Nationals’ estimated 2025 payroll is approximately $25 million below last season’s total, giving them room to strengthen their pitching staff. Improving the rotation and bullpen remains a priority after their 71-91 finish in 2024.

Josh Bell

Washington Nationals

Natasha Bose

I write about sports because, well, it brings in the big bucks! I’m not some lifelong analyst or stats guru, truth being told, you’ve probably never heard of me!—I just know how to research, write, and make things sound good. That’s the job!
Got into sports media the same way most people do: by (fortunate) accident. Started with SEO writing, took on a few sports gigs, and now here we are! I cover games, trades, player drama—whatever needs words.
Favorite part? The chaos. One day it’s a blockbuster trade, the next it’s a goat running onto the field. Never boring.
Message to readers: If you want deep analysis, there are people for that. If you want sharp, no-BS writing that actually makes sense, stick around.