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About Alex Speier

Before he joined WEEI.com, Alex covered the Red Sox for several New England and national publications, including the New Hampshire Union Leader, Boston Metro, Boston Herald and Baseball America. Alex graduated from Harvard, where he served as the captain of the debate team, an experience that has been of surprisingly little use in press boxes across the country.

 
COLUMNS
Alex Speier
12/28/2010 - 9:28am
Thrown for a curve: Rich Hill's bending path to a potential Red Sox role
Rich Hill’s career has depended on one pitch: The curveball. That is the pitch that got him to the majors. That is the pitch that has allowed him to strike out nearly a batter an inning. And that is the offering that, he now hopes, will position him to crack the Red Sox roster as a left-handed reliever.
Alex Speier
12/21/2010 - 4:00am
Red Sox payroll likely to be a luxury item in 2011
The necessary caveat is that the offseason isn’t done. The Red Sox could still trim their payroll a bit, perhaps with a trade of Mike Cameron or another veteran (Marco Scutaro). Even so, for the second straight year, the Red Sox are poised to set a new team payroll record, and they’re willing to pay a premium to do so.
Alex Speier
12/19/2010 - 4:45am
What's left for the Red Sox bullpen?
Are they open to adding another left-hander to their bullpen? Sure. The Red Sox have made a pair of significant moves to upgrade their bullpen, adding right-hander Bobby Jenks (pending a physical that was rescheduled from Saturday to Monday) and right-hander Dan Wheeler. But the team's relievers skew quite clearly right at this point, with Jenks and Wheeler joining holdovers Jonathan Papelbon, Daniel Bard and Scott Atchison in the Red Sox bullpen.
Alex Speier
12/15/2010 - 8:57am
Fine wine or vinegar? What history says about how Carl Crawford will age
When watching Carl Crawford, one trait jumps out above all others: Speed.
Alex Speier
12/09/2010 - 1:23pm
The big spend: Why the Red Sox could give Carl Crawford his megadeal
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- It may not seem like it right now, in the aftermath of a pair of staggering acquisitions, but the Red Sox operate within budgets.
Alex Speier
12/07/2010 - 5:14am
How Kevin Youkilis became the man behind the Adrian Gonzalez deal
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Yes, on Monday, the Red Sox were in a mood for celebrating the acquisition of a superstar whom they expect to impact their club for years to come. But they were also mindful that the deal to land Adrian Gonzalez would have been impossible without a player who is already a centerpiece of the club.
Alex Speier
12/03/2010 - 10:11pm
Padres, Red Sox discussing potential Adrian Gonzalez deal
According to multiple major league sources familiar with the conversations, the Padres are examining the trade market for All-Star first baseman Adrian Gonzalez. One of the teams to whom the Padres are talking, said one source, is the Red Sox, who are once again trying to see if the framework of a deal can be reached.
Alex Speier
12/02/2010 - 6:19am
Red Sox relief remake, Part 1: The current state of the bullpen
It is time for bullpens to be made. The Red Sox entered the offseason with a stated top priority on rebuilding a relief corps that endured a massive struggle in 2010. The team has already acquired a couple of pitchers who represent buy-low opportunities, but perhaps the most noteworthy change could come on Thursday.
Alex Speier
11/29/2010 - 1:39am
Earning his Werth? Dwight Evans thinks so
It’s not hard to figure out why agent Scott Boras wanted to compare his client, Jayson Werth, to longtime Red Sox standout Dwight Evans.
Alex Speier
11/24/2010 - 10:00am
Risky Business: Breaking down the Red Sox' decision on Victor Martinez
The Red Sox’ decision to hold the line and let Victor Martinez walk represented a choice of the kind of risk that the team wanted to assume.
Alex Speier
11/22/2010 - 1:39pm
Red Sox face Jason Varitek arbitration dilemma
After the 2008 season, the Red Sox faced an intriguing decision about whether to offer their captain salary arbitration. Jason Varitek was coming off a horrific year, having hit .220/.313/.359/.672. His salary that season was a bit more than $10 million, not exactly a bargain.
Alex Speier
11/19/2010 - 2:28pm
How Jed Lowrie emerged as a key Red Sox this offseason
In five months, Jed Lowrie has gone from an afterthought to a player who has assumed a prominent role in the Red Sox' offseason plans. Where there seemed to be no role for Lowrie on the Sox in early 2010, as a result of is very strong performance over the final months of the season, there is now a wealth of possibilities facing the 26-year-old.
Alex Speier
11/13/2010 - 2:36am
Separating fact and fiction with Scott Boras and Adrian Beltre
In a startling development, agent Scott Boras suggested that third baseman Adrian Beltre -- one of his clients who is on the free agent market this winter -- compares to some of the game's all-time greats.
Alex Speier
11/09/2010 - 8:54am
Going Young: Why Red Sox pitching coach could be a difference-maker
The hot stove season is just underway, and it will be some time before the most prominent players settle on their destinations.
Alex Speier
11/05/2010 - 7:46am
Beyond David Ortiz: Why a one-year deal suits the Red Sox
There were several reasons why the Red Sox ultimately had more interest in bringing back David Ortiz on a one-year contract than a multi-year deal.
Alex Speier
11/02/2010 - 4:15am
Edgar Renteria helps close the door on era of Red Sox shortstops
No doubt that, as they watched the three-run home run sail over the fence in left-center, thousands of Red Sox fans smacked their foreheads and proclaimed almost in unison, “So THAT is why they signed him.”
Alex Speier
11/01/2010 - 3:08am
A ring for Freddy's finger? Ex-Red Sox prospect Sanchez on cusp of title
Former Red Sox prospect Freddy Sanchez has emerged as a key contributor to a team on the cusp of a championship.
Alex Speier
10/28/2010 - 3:45am
Unlikely October hero Uribe bodes well for a Sox prospect
For most of his career, Juan Uribe has operated in relative obscurity. He is now 10 years into a big league career that is best described as solid rather than spectacular. At the plate, he is a hacker with an all-or-nothing approach who isn't about to waste a swing by trying to shoot a grounder through right side of the infield.
Alex Speier
10/27/2010 - 5:00am
The impact of John Farrell's absence, and what lies ahead for Red Sox pitching coach
The Red Sox will not hire another John Farrell.
Alex Speier
10/21/2010 - 4:08am
Wood have, should have? Yankees reliever thought Red Sox would get him
As reliever Kerry Wood worked his way back towards the big leagues during a minor league rehab assignment in July, he realized that he was likely spending his final days in the Cleveland Indians organization. It was late-July, and Wood was frustrated to be on the disabled list for the 14th time in his career and second for a blister on his right index finger.
Alex Speier
10/19/2010 - 1:39pm
Did John Lackey cost the Red Sox a shot at Cliff Lee?
Did a market miscalculation result in the Red Sox signing John Lackey at the expense of a chance to get Cliff Lee? In terms of both the 2010 season and the future, the possibility exists.
Alex Speier
10/13/2010 - 3:42am
As Rays scatter, what now for the AL East?
It had been hanging over the Rays all season. This was the proverbial last-hurrah, the final opportunity for the core that won the American League pennant in 2008 to claim a championship.
Alex Speier
10/11/2010 - 4:34am
The young guns of autumn: A look at homegrown October rotations
It was a moment that suggested a sea change in how winning teams are formed, both in the majors and in the American League East.
Alex Speier
10/08/2010 - 1:26pm
Year of the Pitcher, or Year of the Umpire?
The playoffs have continued a pair of themes that have been prominent throughout the 2010 season. It is a year of dominant pitching and questionable umpiring. Could the two be related?
Alex Speier
10/07/2010 - 3:13am
Why the Red Sox might keep rolling with Daisuke Matsuzaka
On Wednesday, Roy Halladay did what seemed impossible. In one of the great hitter's environments in the majors, against one of the best lineups in the majors, he threw a no-hitter in Citizens Bank Park.


Audio On Demand

It Is What It Is Cast: Ex…

It Is What It Is Cast: Examining the New England Patriots offseason

In the latest edition of the "It Is What It Is" podcast, Chris Price and CSNNE's Mike Giardi take a look at the Patriots offseason on both sides of the ball, try and get a handle on which new guys will make an impact first, and whether or not the Patriots have altered their style when it comes to drafting and developing wide receivers.

Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk on Tebow's release

Mike Florio joined the program to discuss the Jets decision to release Tim Tebow, he said the situation is as disaster all around for the Jets and that the problems begins with owner Woody Johnson. Mike also said that he was disappointed with the Pats moving back in the first round.

Mike Petraglia, WEEI.com, Sits Down with Butch Stearns to Help Break Down the Pats Draft

One of the hardest working men in the biz, Mike Petraglia aka "Trags", sits down with Butch Stearns live in Foxborough to help break down all the latest Pats moves. He discusses his reaction to the trade in Round 1 and the guys those picks produced. Also, the boys talk about the decent trade the Pats made in acquiring LeGarrette Blount from Tampa Bay for Jeff Demps and a 7th rounder.

Celtics President Danny A…

Celtics President Danny Ainge with Salk and Holley

We check in with Danny Ainge for our first talk to him since the Celtics season ended last weekend. We talk about the future of the team, KG, Pierce, Doc Rivers and more, as Danny directly answers the rumors being floated by ESPN's Stephen A. Smith.

Jackie MacMullan, ESPNBoston.com: "Gut" tells me Doc will stay

Jackie Mac joins the show to discuss the trade rumors swirling around Paul Pierce, KG, Doc Rivers and the Celtics. She also discusses the future of the Celtics head coach.

ESPN's Stephen A. Smith on his rumored Celtics Clippers trade

Stephen A. joined the program to discuss the trade rumors he has reported regarding a possible trade including Doc Rivers and the Clippers. Stephen A. also told the guys that he has heard that Danny and Doc may be tiring of working together.

Will Middlebrooks with Jo…

Will Middlebrooks with Joe Castiglione & Dave O'Brien live from the dugout

Will Middlebrooks hit a 3-run double in the top of the 9th inning to power the Red Sox to a 4-3 victory over the Rays tonight. He joined Joe & Dave after the final call live from the dugout.

Larry Lucchino on the Sox recent struggles

Larry joined the program to discuss the teams recent struggles and informed the guys that it is still early in the season. Larry also said that he still has faith that Daniel bard can turn things around.

Stephen Drew postgame with Joe and Dave

Stephen Drew helped the Red Sox to a 9-2 victory over the Rays tonight with a grand slam in the 3rd inning. He spoke with Joe Castiglione & Dave O'Brien after the game.

Matt Bartkowski, Bruins D…

Matt Bartkowski, Bruins D: Coaches and teammates have made him comfortable

Bruins rookie defenseman Matt Bartkowski has emerged as one of the young stars of the team and he joins Mut and Tom Caron to discuss his role on the team, why he's confident, and the trade that almost sent him to Calgary.

Andy Brickley, NESN: Keep Bartkowski in lineup

Andy Brickley joins the show to discuss the Bruins Game 1 win over the Rangers, the play of the three young Bruins defensemen, and the fatigue Jagr has shown on the ice.

Pierre McGuire, NBC Sports, on Game 1 Bruins Rangers

Pierre McGuire joins Tom Caron and Mut to discuss the Bruins young defensemen, the intensity and energy level in the game, and the Rangers offense.

Shawn Thornton on his mes…

Shawn Thornton on his message to Seguin in Game 7 against the Leafs

Shawn joined the program to discuss another overtime win for the Bruins. When asked about Game 7 against Toronto, Thornton said that he would like to keep his specific comments in the dressing room private, but acknowledged that he encouraged Tyler Seguin to up his play and it paid off in overtime.

NESN's Barry Pederson on Bruins Rangers game one

Barry joined the guys to help breakdown the Bruins overtime win last night in game one. Barry said that he has rarely seen a team dominate as much as the Bruins yet be forced to an overtime.

Rangers superfan Boomer Esiason on the Bruins game 1 win

Boomer joined the program to discuss the tough loss for his beloved Rangers. Boomer told the guys that Lundqvist will be better in game two and predicted a seven game series.

Matt Bartkowski, Bruins D…

Matt Bartkowski, Bruins D: Coaches and teammates have made him comfortable

Bruins rookie defenseman Matt Bartkowski has emerged as one of the young stars of the team and he joins Mut and Tom Caron to discuss his role on the team, why he's confident, and the trade that almost sent him to Calgary.

Kevin Millar, Former Red Sox 1B, on Sox struggles

Millar joins the show to discuss the recent Sox slide, Jacoby Ellsbury's lack of power, and hitting in the big leagues.

Andy Brickley, NESN: Keep Bartkowski in lineup

Andy Brickley joins the show to discuss the Bruins Game 1 win over the Rangers, the play of the three young Bruins defensemen, and the fatigue Jagr has shown on the ice.

An hour with Jack: Breaki…

An hour with Jack: Breaking down the Bruins OT win over the Rangers with NESN's Jack Edwards

We talk all things game one with Jack Edwards of NESN, and get to hear a little from Jack's Finnish protege as well.

Salk and Holley's Four at Four - 05/17/13

We tackle four topics we haven't yet touched upon today.. Joe Thornton and disappointing former Boston athletes, parking in Boston, buying jersey numbers and more...

Yo Soy Traction! Rob Gronkowski now may need back surgery in addition to his 4th surgery on his injured wrist.

We talk about the report that Rob Gronkowski may now be a candidate for back surgery with a disc problem. Is Gronk just an injury prone guy? Or is he not rehabbing proberly? Can the Pats build an offense around a guy who is so inconsistently on the field? We discuss.

Daily Planet Thursday May…

Daily Planet Thursday May 9th

The Bruins have almost finished raking the Leafs, the Red Sox struggle from the mound, Miami Heat fans show their level of class.

Daily Planet Wednesday May 8th

Daily Planet Wednesday May 8th

Daily Planet Tuesday May 7th

Today on the Daily Planet the Bruins take a 2-1 series lead, the Red Sox get a run-off win, and we hear about cannibals and bible thieves.

Buster Olney, ESPN: Ellsb…

Buster Olney, ESPN: Ellsbury play will hurt him in free agency

Buster Olney joins the show to discuss the muddled AL East, the average play of Ellsbury and how that will affect him in free agency, and Tropicana Field.

More from this show

Linda calls in to describ…

Linda calls in to describe the scene on Dexter St in Watertown

Linda explains how the shootout transpired in Watertown during the early morning hours. She saw the first suspect mortally wounded and police beginning the manhunt for the second suspect.

More from this show

Boston bombing hero Jeff …

Boston bombing hero Jeff Bauman: "He's dead and I'm still here"

Jeff Bauman, a victim of the Boston Marathon bombing, joined the show to give the guys an update of his condition and a first-hand account of that terrible day. Jeff told the guys how he wrote the description of the bomber as soon as he could. Mr. Bauman added that he is aided every day with the knowledge that he is alive and the terrorist that detonated the bomb is dead.

More from this show

Danny Ainge dispels the r…

Danny Ainge dispels the rumors: "I have the best coach in the NBA"

We check in with Danny Ainge for our first talk to him since the Celtics season ended last weekend. We talk about the future of the team, KG, Pierce, Doc Rivers and more, as Danny directly answers the rumors being floated by ESPN's Stephen A. Smith.

More from this show

Dale Arnold likes the Bru…

Dale Arnold likes the Bruins over the Rangers

Dale Arnold joined the program to preview the Bruins Rangers series with John, Gerry and Kirk. Dale thinks the Bruins have the advantage in the series over New York.

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