Ryan Freel, who was a super utility player for the Cincinnati Reds from 2003-08, was found dead at his home in Jacksonville, Fla., on Saturday of a self-inflicted gunshot wound, police said.
Freel, a .268 career hitter with 143 stolen bases known for his hustle and fearless brand of play, last played in the majors in 2009.
Marc Lancaster, who covered the Reds when he played there, shared his recollections about the sometimes wacky, sometimes depressed Freel for CBSSports' Eye on Baseball.
Freel had several concussions during his playing career and was hired to be a high school coach earlier this year before deciding not to pursue it. He was 36.
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