Josh Bell is back in D.C. and feeling good about it.

Washington D.C. - The veteran first baseman, who enjoyed a productive stint with the Nationals from 2020-2021, has returned to the team that first brought him to the big leagues. In a recent interview with the media, Josh Bell couldn't hide his excitement for the homecoming, "When I initially got traded, I always told myself that I would come back," he shared, a genuine smile likely gracing his face. "It's definitely a blessing for me and my family to put on the uniform, go back to spring training, and get situated with those guys again."

Things have changed a bit since his last time in D.C. With the emergence of Nathaniel Lowe at first base, Bell is expected to serve as the designated hitter primarily. But instead of seeing it as a demotion, Bell sees an opportunity. "I'm excited for it," he said. "I know that initially, I struggled with it a little bit [being a DH]...but I think I've gotten better at it over the years. I know, just the importance of what this team needs is a slugger."

And slugging is exactly what Bell plans to do. "I'm an old-school hitter," he explained, "but understanding like seeing, you know, MVPs and whatnot, the last few years, they hit 40 plus homers, and they might strike out 150 plus times, but that doesn't get talked about. The slugging is the most important thing."

The Nationals' young core, including players like James Wood, CJ Abrams, and MacKenzie Gore, is a source of excitement for the future. Their energy and potential are palpable, and they have the potential to become a force in the league.

Bell is eager to mentor and help these young stars reach their full potential. He believes their combination of talent and drive will make them a formidable force in the future." Bell said, "Many players can be household names here very soon. I know that you know, just looking from afar, I've heard great things about James Wood. I've seen CJ [Abrams] play at shortstop, Dylan Crews like it's, you name it, you have a superstar talent, and you know, guys that have gotten a taste of the big leagues had some success and are coming back for more time.

"This is when they can continue to take that step forward and make themselves elite in this game. I'm excited to help, you know, guide and also learn from them, benefit from having speed in front of me. So I'm excited. I know that both parties will benefit me."

Reflecting on his journey through various teams, Bell acknowledged the challenges of constantly moving. "It's been tough to bounce around as much as I have in the last few years," he admitted, a touch of weariness in his tone. "But for me, I love it. I've lived it my whole life and it's better than anything I could have imagined big league baseball would be."

Ultimately, Bell's return to Washington represents a homecoming for the veteran slugger. He's eager to contribute to a young and talented team, embrace his leadership role, and rediscover the positive experience during his first stint with the Nationals.

"I felt the most empowered as a baseball player when I've been playing with the Nats," he said, a touch of nostalgia in his voice. "And that's one of the main reasons I want to return."