MIAMI — Ryan Freel, a former major leaguer known for his fearless play but whose career was cut short after eight seasons by injuries, was found dead Saturday in Jacksonville, Fla., police said.

Freel, who was 36, died of what appeared to be a self-inflicted shotgun wound, a sheriff’s office said yesterday.

The speedy Freel spent six of his eight big league seasons with the Reds and finished his career in 2009 with a .268 average and 143 steals.

Freel also played for the Orioles, Cubs and Royals.