Tuesday, July 17, 2001
Rangers 5-0 in Bell's starts
By STEPHEN HAWKINS
AP Sports Writer
ARLINGTON, Texas — Rob Bell is gaining confidence with the Texas Rangers. Bell (3-0) was winless in nine starts for Cincinnati this season, but Texas has won all five of his starts since he was acquired in a trade June 15.
Bell came within one out of his first career shutout and Texas' first complete game this season in Monday night's 2-0 win over the San Francisco Giants.
“Coming here, this organization is just 180 degrees different. They are concerned with individuals here,” Bell said. “I heard so much (in Cincinnati) of what I can't do and how I can't pitch and get guys out in the big leagues.”
Bell scattered six hits, struck out five and issued five walks — three to Barry Bonds. He left after giving up a ground-rule double to J.T. Snow with two outs in the ninth.
“We are going to give him a chance to pitch. He doesn't have to worry about being sent down or looking over his shoulder,” Rangers manager Jerry Narron said. “That's probably as big as anything for him. He knows we really wanted him here.”
The Rangers gave up promising outfielder Ruben Mateo in exchange for Bell, a 24-year-old pitcher who has 40 career starts.
“He threw a good game. You can't take anything away from him,” Giants manager Dusty Baker said.
Jeff Zimmerman relieved and hit Marvin Benard with a pitch before retiring Edwards Guzman for his 14th save in 17 chances.
In the first five innings, San Francisco left seven runners on base. Reigning NL MVP Jeff Kent stranded six in his first three at-bats — all after Bonds walked.
“We were forcing the issue and not getting the hits,” Kent said. “We just didn't have it, and I'll be at the top of that list.”
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Rangers 5-0 in Bell's starts
