Pittsburgh Pirates Josh Bell Named NL Player of the Month For May

After having a historically good month of May, Pittsburgh Pirates slugger Josh Bell has been named the National League Player of the Month.

There was never any doubt, was there? In the month of May, Pittsburgh Pirates first baseman Josh Bell was historically good. It was not just one of the best months in franchise history, but also in National League history.

Following his month long ambush on MLB pitching staffs, Bell has been named the National League Player of the Month. While this is the first time in Bell’s career he was won a player of the month award, it is safe to say it will not be the last. Hell, it may not be the last this season.

Bell slashed .390/.442/.797 during the month of May. His .501 wOBA, 218 wRC+, and .407 ISO all led the league during the month. His slugging percentage, ISO, and wRC+ all led the league, as did his 46 hits, 12 doubles, 24 extra base hits, and 31 RBI. His 12 home runs were tied for the lead league, while his wOBA were second in the league and his OBP was third.

During the month Bell collected 94 total bases which broke Ralph Kiner‘s franchise record for total bases in a single month. He also joined Hank Aaron and Frank Robinson as the only players in NL history to collect at least 12 doubles and 12 home runs in the same month.

Throughout the month of May Bell’s limitless potential as a hitter was on full display. His play in the month also turned him into both a legitimate NL MVP contender, as well as the front runner to start at first base for the NL in the All-Star Game next month. This is shaping up to be a magical, unforgettable season for Bell.

Congrats to Josh on a historically good month of May! And congrats on turning into some NL Player of the Month hardware!