Pirates rookie Bell focused on ‘longevity’

PITTSBURGH — Since the Pirates drafted him in 2011, but especially over the last few years, Josh Bell set his sights on reaching the Major Leagues. That was the end point, he thought, the ultimate goal, the light at the end of the tunnel. He made it this year, but it wasn’t the finish line he’d built up in his mind.

“You realize you’re just getting out of the starting blocks,” Bell said.

This time last year, Bell was preparing to dazzle Pirates brass with Spring Training home runs and web gems, thinking that would get him to Pittsburgh. Now, the 24-year-old switch-hitter said, he is thinking about “longevity,” how he can stay effective in the big leagues as long as possible.

The 6-foot-2 slugger has cut his weight to around 233 pounds, he said during PirateFest, down from 240-245 during the season. He’s taken up yoga and spin classes.

“Just focusing on my body and not how hard I can swing a bat,” Bell said. “Trying to focus on the complete package.”

Bell is taking hacks in his garage, swatting at heavy bags to keep a feel for his swing without worrying about results. He’s been doing that after seeking out offseason advice from …

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