CLEVELAND, Nov. 27 (UPI) -- Former Colorado Rockies manager Buddy Bell is back on the coaching staff of the Cleveland Indians as bench coach.
The announcement was made Wednesday by rookie manager Eric Wedge.
Bell has been with the Indians since May as a consultant. He played in 987 games with the Indians from 1972-78, and served as infield coach under Mike Hargrove in 1994 and '95.
During his 18-year playing career, Bell was a five-time All-Star and won six Gold Gloves. He was fired as manager of the Rockies on April 26 after a 6-16 start.
The Indians also announced that Joel Skinner will return to his job as third base coach. Skinner held the job last season before being promoted to interim manager following the firing of Charlie Manuel.
Hitting coach Eddie Murray, first base coach Jeff Datz, and pitching coach Mike Brown all will return next season.
Robby Thompson, the bench and infield coach last season, has taken a position as a special assistant to the general manager.
