Health Bell is surprised to still be a member of the Padres after entering the offseason with an uncertain future.
"To be honest with you, I am a little surprised I'm here," Bell said. "Last year, at the end of the year, I wasn't sure if I had thrown my last pitch for the Pads. But I'm really glad to be back here."
San Diego and Bell, 33, avoided arbitration last month when they agreed to a one-year, $7.5 million contract for 2011, a sizable raise from the $4 million he made last season.
The Padres and Bell's agents said they would table any discussions about a multi-year contract for now, but would certainly revisit the topic this spring.
"My understanding is that [talks are] going to blossom during Spring Training. I'm not going to worry about it. My agents will come here in March and they'll talk then. I like that we are going to talk. If we can get it done, great. If not, OK. But at least we are trying."
Bell Surprised To Be With Padres, Extension May Be Looming





