Josh Bell Is Quietly Putting Up MVP Numbers

If the Pittsburgh Pirates weren’t 63-81, Josh Bell would be in the NL MVP conversation. 

After hitting just 12 home runs through 148 games played last season, Bell changed his swing path and has already recorded 36 homers and 114 RBIs in 138 games. 

He will spearhead a Pirates lineup that has dominated right-handed pitching this season, posting an MLB-leading 1,017 hits and .274 average (2nd-best) against righties. Pittsburgh will face Johnny Cueto and the San Francisco Giants tonight. Cueto is fresh off of Tommy John surgery and will likely see a limited pitch count. 

Nonetheless, it should be an intriguing matchup, since Cueto has been one of the most consistent starting pitchers in baseball throughout his career. The Giants opened as -130 favorites.

Head to the “Games” tab for all the betting info you need to choose the right side tonight!