According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today is reporting that the Minnesota Twins are “extensively scouting” San Diego Padres closer Heath Bell for a trade.

In the wake of the injury to reliever Joe Nathan, the Minnesota Twins have been trade candidates for a closer. Names that have recently come up include, Indians closer Kerry Wood, Reds closer Francisco Cordero and free agent John Smoltz.

Bell, 32, was 6-4 with a 2.71 ERA with 42 saves with the Padres in 2009. You can see Bell’s contract history and statistics here.

Related posts:

1. John Smoltz Rumors: Closer for the Twins?
2. Heath Bell Rumors: 3-4 teams interested in pitcher
3. San Diego Padres Rumors: Bell signs one-year deal but will he be traded?
4. Minnesota Twins Trade Rumors: Dealing Glen Perkins for Nathan replacement?
5. Kerry Wood Trade Rumors: Indians holding on to their closer