Bell became San Diego's closer when Hoffman, baseball's career saves leader, agreed to a $6 million, one-year deal with the Milwaukee Brewers last week.

Bell appeared in a staff-high 74 games in 2008, going 6-6 with a 3.58 ERA and earning $420,000

He has two career saves. Hoffman has a record 554 saves.

San Diego Padres News News » Bell, Padres agree to one-year deal
Bell, Padres agree to one-year deal
SAN DIEGO (AP) - Heath Bell, who will replace Trevor Hoffman as the San Diego Padres' closer, avoided arbitration Tuesday when he agreed to a one-year contract worth $1,255,000. MLB Hot Stove