Top 25 MLB prospects that need to be called up right now

Mar 11, 2016; Jupiter, FL, USA; Atlanta Braves second baseman Dansby Swanson (80) tosses the ball to first base for an out against the St. Louis Cardinals during the game at Roger Dean StadiumThe Cardinals defeated the Braves 4-3. Mandatory Credit: Scott Rovak-USA TODAY Sports /

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Mar 3, 2016; Bradenton, FL, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates first baseman Josh Bell (55) during the sixth inning against the Toronto Blue Jays at McKechnie Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

11. Josh Bell, Pittsburgh Pirates

The Pirates are currently employing a rotating cast of first basemen, with the John Jaso, Sean Rodriguez and David Freese all seeing time there. However, all three of them are little more than placeholders as the club awaits the arrival of Josh Bell, the latest in an impressive line of homegrown, everyday talent in Pittsburgh.

A year after hitting .317 while splitting his time between first base and right field, Bell’s on-base percentage remains strong (.373), though his average has dropped slightly. But this should not stop him from making his way to MLB this summer. The 245 pound switch hitter profiles to have plus power as his swing continues to develop, but he is unlikely to develop elite pop.

Bell has a mature approach at the plate and a selective eye that should allow him to make an easy transition against the tougher breaking balls and overall quality of major league arms. He would do well not to come up until later in the summer, but of all prospects that are part of contending teams, he has one of the clearest pathways to promotion.

Next: #11. Josh Bell

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