Free Wheelin Freel | The Lowdown

Utility man Ryan Freel is a fan favorite for the Cincinnati Reds because of his hustle and heart. Both were on display Monday when Freel collided in the outfield with Norris Hopper (who stealthfully slipped the ball into Freel's glove before the umpire arrived on scene to rule it a catch). The outfield crash knocked Freel unconscious and earned him a one night stay in the hospital.

Freel will see a specialist Tuesday for an update on his condition. Here's hoping he'll recover from his injuries soon. And here's hoping this play helps the Reds recover from their listless start to the season.

Despite the fact that Ken Griffey, Jr. is so far having a productive and injury free year; despite the fact that the Reds have pretty much gotten what they expected from pitchers Aaron Harang and Bronson Arroyo; despite the fact that pitchers Kyle Lohse and Matt Belisle have occasionally contributed more than they were expected to contribute, the Reds are in the MLB basement.

Prior to Monday's game, Freel's all-out play was not enough to inspire his teammates to step up their own game. Perhaps now they can adopt a "win one for the Gipper" attitude that will help them string some wins together.

Ironic isn't it? One player getting knocked out could be what it takes for all the Reds to wake up.

STORY UPDATE: After Freel went down, the Reds went on to win four of their next five, which by Reds standards is remarkable. Of course, they were playing the Astros and Rockies...

This update is brought to you by the Department of Predictions Sure to Go Wrong.

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May 29, 2007 10:13 PM ET

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Well.............they won't cause they have no talent.

TheLefty05

Dayton , OH

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May 29, 2007 11:47 PM ET

They have enough talent to be respectable. At this point, that's all I'm asking. As a longtime fan of mostly perennial losers, I never set my sights too high.