"Memo to the Rangers: San Diego closer Heath Bell is willing to work as a setup reliever for a contender during the second half.

Bell, who has 73 saves in 77 chances since the start of last season, expects to be traded along with several other Padres relievers. The bullpen corps has fun with the situation, Bell said, by making bets about who will be traded first and the next destination for each pitcher.

"It's a big joke down there for us," Bell said.

Bell will become a free agent after this season, and he wants to close with his next club. A half-season stint as a setup man with a contender is acceptable."