For the third straight season, the Padres will be represented by closer Heath Bell in the Major League Baseball All-Star Game.

The power pitcher from Oceanside, Calif., has enjoyed a tremendous season in which he has saved 26 games in 27 opportunities to go along with a 2.43 ERA. His saves total is tied for second best among all closers in the National League.

Since taking over for baseball's all-time saves leader Trevor Hoffman in 2009, Bell has had more saves than anyone in baseball.

"He's the true definition of a closer," said Padres general manager Jed Hoyer in an interview with MLB.com. "When he comes in the game, with a 91 percent save percentage, you can pack up your computer and go home."

Since May 29, 2010, Bell has only blown one save in his last 58 opportunities. His 115 saves with the Padres rank second all-time in club history behind Hoffman.

Still, despite all the accolades and praises from opposing managers and hitters throughout the league, Bell knows not to take something as special as the All-Star game for granted.

"I've never thought I would make one All-Star team, let alone three," he said recently.

For Bell, this year's game could be the last one he appears in as a San Diego Padre. Rumors have spread rapidly that he will be moved by the time the July 31 trade deadline rolls around.

With great bullpen depth and a limited payroll, the Padres may decide that it is time to part ways with the fan favorite. Bell is a free agent after the season and will surely demand a high salary similar to the other top-notch closers in the league, a salary the team will not be able to afford. He estimates his odds of being traded are 90 percent.

"We've (Bell and his family) been here for almost five years," he said. "I don't really feel like I'm being pushed out. The organization is going in a different direction and, unfortunately, I'm not a part of it."

Even though he is unexcited about the thought of leaving San Diego, Bell is not the kind to let rumors affect his attitude. He still plans to have fun at this year's festivities.

"I'm going to make sure I have fun," said Bell, hours after he was selected to the All-Star team.

His plans? On Sunday, Bell loaded the family minivan with his wife, Nicole, and their four children for the six-hour drive to Phoenix.

"This year I'm going to be sure to get a family photo and do more of the things going on," Bell was quoted saying.

One thing is for sure, this is a game the Bell family won't soon forget.

The All-Star Game will be played July 12 at Chase Field in Arizona and will be televised nationally on FOX.