Buddy Bells task load increased heavily on Friday with his promotion, but he doesnt foresee any problems.
The former player, manager and White Sox vice president of player development takes over as assistant general manager. Not only is Bell, who played 18 seasons in the majors and is in his 10th season with the franchise, in charge of player development, but he also is expected to assists with the major league roster and staffing decisions. Bell, 61, said hes also excited to continue his roll in amateur scouting and handling special assignments.
Player development is really a passion of mine, Bell said. Amateur scouting and special assignment are still going to be there. Theyre still going to take a lot of my time, which I like. I like being busy, so this particular title gives me a chance to do a lot of different things.
The biggest change for Bell will be his involvement with staffing and the major league roster. He knows the change will result in more time spent in Chicago as well as working with Rick Hahn, who was promoted from assistant GM to general manager last Friday.
Bell -- who managed for nine seasons with Detroit (1996-98), Colorado (2000-02) and Kansas City (2005-07) -- has worked closely with Hahn the past few seasons and said the two enjoy a good relationship.
There hasnt been any issues, Bell said. One of the great things about Rick is obviously hes very intelligent. Hes a great listener and that obviously helps when youre talking across the table from somebody and talking ideas. Ive had a great relationship from the very beginning. Obviously it changed a little bit because last season I got more involved at the major league end and Rick got more involved on the minor league end. Our front office is fairly inclusive anyway. It kind of makes it easy for relationship because everyone is fairly involved.
Bell returned to the White Sox in 2008 as the director of minor-league instruction, a post he held from 1991-93. He was elevated to director of player development in 2009 and held that position until he was promoted to vice president of player development last season.
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A five-time All-Star who played for Cleveland, Texas, Cincinnati and Houston, Bell said hes excited he would retain his minor-league and scouting duties though he never thought hed find himself in this situation.
Ive loved that, Bell said. If youd have asked me 20 years ago if I would have enjoyed amateur scouting, we would went to something different else real quick. I really like doing that along with player development. Player development is really a passion of mine.