Born in Galveston, Texas, Bell played for the Kansas City Monarchs for the first eight seasons of his career.

[2] Often overshadowed by star teammates such as "Bullet" Joe Rogan and José Méndez, Bell was described as quiet and well-liked, known for pitching complete games.

The following year, Bell went 9–3 in the regular season, pitching 2 games in the World Series to a 1.13 ERA.

[3] Bell joined the Detroit Wolves in 1932 after the demise of the Negro National League.

[3] Baseball historian Dick Clark estimated that Bell would have averaged an 18–7 record had he played the 154-game schedule that was used in the Major Leagues at the time.