Protecting Freel isn't easy
Narron: Utilityman needs regular days off

By John Fay
Enquirer staff writer

SAN DIEGO - Reds manager Jerry Narron figures he has to protect Ryan Freel because Freel isn't going to protect himself.

"With Ryan Freel, we want to keep him healthy," Narron said. "The way he plays - he plays with reckless abandon and he's not going to change - we're going to play him five, maybe six, days a week."

The plan is to mix in regular off-days for Freel, who still will get the bulk of the time at second base, though.

Narron plans to play Edwin Encarnacion nearly every day at third base.

Freel also can play outfield, but Narron is having enough trouble finding time for Austin Kearns and Wily Mo Peņa - much less Jacob Cruz.

NO PLAY FOR RAY: Ray Olmedo is a guy Narron simply hasn't been able to get into the lineup.

Narron had planned to start Olmedo a game or two or the road trip, but that hasn't happened.

"I've got to find some way, somehow to get him a start," Narron said.

Olmedo hasn't started a game since July 9. He had a career-high three hits in that game. Olmedo is hitting .409 overall since being promoted from Triple-A Louisville June 28.

"He's done a great job," Narron said. "He's in here early every day - running, taking early B.P. I'm sure he'd like to be playing nine innings every night."
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