A Heart-y Look at the Astros Who Wore Number 14

Derek Bell was one of the original Killer B’s, teaming up with Jeff Bagwell and Craig Biggio to create a dominant trio in the batting order during the mid-to-late 90s. He helped the Astros win three consecutive NL Central Division titles from 1997-99.

Acquired by the Astros in a blockbuster offseason trade with the San Diego Padres that included Ken Caminiti, Bell was a solid outfielder for Houston for five seasons. During that time he batted .284/.341/.430 with 237 extra base hits, 444 runs batted in, and 102 stolen bases. In 1998, Derek Bell had 198 hits which is good for fourth on Houston’s single season hits list.

Unfortunately for Houston, Bell became a distraction in 1999 when he openly criticized manager Larry Dierker on the day the manager returned from brain surgery. Bell was traded to the New York Mets along with Mike Hampton during the offseason.

Candy heart rating: 2 (he gets a downgrade for attitude)

Next: Morgan Ensberg