Despite an electric weekend debut, the Pirates are unwillingly to commit to Bell at first base because of his defense, the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.

EDGE Analysis

He went 2-for-2 with a walk and a grand slam against the Cubs in three pinch-hitting opportunities but did not play in the field. Pirates GM Neal Huntington is looking for Bell to become a "ninth-inning defender." There was some talk that Pittsburgh could put him in right field Sunday with Gregory Polanco (hamstring) ailing, but manager Clint Hurdle didn't think that'd be fair after two years away from the outfield. The team has yet to reveal whether Bell, who's already made 10 errors at first base for Triple-A Indianapolis, will start the second half in the big leagues. Polanco's status will likely determine whether Bell remains with the Bucs or fights for the Triple Crown at Indy.