Director of sports medicine Todd Tomczyk said Bell (oblique) continues to improve even though he isn't eligible to come off the disabled list until Tuesday, the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.
While Tomczyk wouldn't confirm a Tuesday return for Bell, it looks like the first baseman dodged a more serious and lengthy injury. Although he's hit a disappointing six homers, the 25-year-old has lifted his OPS 53 points (.698 to .749) since June 23.