December 9, 2008 The trade in which the Orioles will send catcher Ramon Hernandez to the Reds for utility man Ryan Freel is expected to be announced today, according to Baseball Prospectus.
Our View:There is a bit of a logjam in the Reds' outfield and somewhat of a hole behind the dish so the deal makes a lot of since for them. Hopefully, Freel will find something more than a platoon situation in Baltimore. He has the potential to be a nice fantasy producer, mostly due to his speed.
December 8, 2008 The Cincinnati Enquirer is reporting that the Cincinnati Reds and Baltimore Orioles are discussing a Ryan Freel for Ramon Hernandez trade.
Our View:The Orioles are looking to move Hernandez's salary, and could turn to uber-prospect Matt Weiters behind the plate this year.
August 4, 2008 Ryan Freel had surgery on his hamstring, but still thinks he could make it back this season, according to MLB.com.
Our View:Freel can be useful in fantasy baseball, especially in NL-only leagues, because of his stolen base potential.
July 23, 2008 Ryan Freel underwent surgery Tuesday to repair a torn hamstring tendon behind his right knee, according to the AP.
Our View:The 50-minute procedure was performed by Reds' medical director Dr. Timothy Kremchek and will keep him sidelined for four to six weeks.
July 18, 2008 Ryan Freel will undergo surgery to repair a torn hamstring, according to Reds.com. It is not known how long he will be out.
Our View:It's possible Freel may not see the field the rest of the year, so fantasy owners hoping to get some stolen bases out of him come August and September may be end up being disappointed.
