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About Rob Bradford

Rob Bradford joined WEEI.com after serving as a Red Sox beat writer for the Boston Herald and the Eagle-Tribune (Lawrence, Mass.). Prior to manning the Red Sox beat, he spent several years at the Lowell Sun. He has written two books: “Chasing Steinbrenner,” following the front offices of the Red Sox and Toronto Blue Jays through the 2003 season, and “Deep Drive: A Long Journey to Discovering the Champion Within,” which he co-authored with Red Sox third baseman Mike Lowell.

 
COLUMNS
Rob Bradford
09/03/2009 - 9:36am
Five Things We Learned: Red Sox Starting Pitching Edition
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – Sure, some fairly noteworthy things happened at Tropicana Field Wednesday night.
Rob Bradford
09/02/2009 - 3:40am
Five Things We Learned: This Papelbon-Wagner Thing Just Might Work
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – Look, no controversy. Just wins. Billy Wagner pitched well. Jonathan Papelbon did the same. The Red Sox won, 8-4, over the Tampa Bay Rays on Tuesday night at Tropicana Field (recap), and all was right with the world. Heck, if you listened really closely back in the trainers room you might have heard the two actually sharing a “guffaw” after the game.
Rob Bradford
08/29/2009 - 9:05am
Five Things We Learned: Papelbon and Fist Pumps Means It's Crunch-Time
“Buckle up ladies, this might get exciting!” The words could originally be found in the trailer for the Dukes of Hazzard movie a few years back, but they fit fairly well in the Red Sox’ clubhouse after their 6-5 win over the Blue Jays, Friday night at Fenway Park. Maybe that’s why that orange t-shirt adorning the logo of the 1970’s television show seemed to fit Sox closer Jonathan Papelbon as he got ready to call it a night.
Rob Bradford
08/28/2009 - 7:37am
The Bradford Files: The Importance of Keeping Victor Martinez
Should the Red Sox make signing Victor Martinez to a contract extension a priority? In reality, it was a question without multiple answers, as David Ortiz matter-of-factly pointed out. “You’re going to let a guy like that go?” the Red Sox DH responded. “Bring the guy here, put him in the third spot, play him all over the place and have him do what he’s done. You’re going to let him go? That’s not even a question. You’re going to have to do better than that.”
Rob Bradford
08/25/2009 - 8:04am
Five Things We Learned: The Red Sox Can Survive Without Billy Wagner
Just minutes before Jonathan Papelbon spoke, his team had finished off one of those nights that made Fenway Park fans believe there would be baseball in October in these parts, beating the Chicago White Sox, 12-8, Monday night. (Recap.)
Rob Bradford
08/22/2009 - 9:24am
Five Things We Learned: The Yankees Offered Quite the Punctuation
 The story of the 2009 Red Sox is far from written. But last night sure felt like a pretty strong punctuation mark when it came to closing out at least one chapter – the race for first-place in the American League East. By the time the series opener concluded, with the Fenway Park scoreboard screaming “New York 20, Red Sox 11,” it wasn’t difficult to decipher the reality of the moment. (Although the fact that these two teams had never scored as many runs against each other in their storied history suggested something was afoot.)
Rob Bradford
08/21/2009 - 10:39am
The Bradford Files: Dealing With the 'MT Curse'
It was 7:51 p.m. on June 11 when the Tweet popped up. “the MT curse?” It didn’t take a Twitterologist to decipher what Red Sox principal owner John Henry meant when tapping in those 15 characters (imagine if he used all 140 allowed). Just a few minutes before his team had beaten the Yankees for the eighth time in as many tries in the 2009 season, and a player with the initials “MT” was in the middle of the pinstriped suffering after choosing New York over Boston.
Rob Bradford
08/19/2009 - 10:03am
For Pedroia, Dylan Was Worth the Wait
In Dustin Pedroia’s world, the scouting report on his son, Dylan, was complete even before he came into this world. “He’s a baller,” the Red Sox second baseman said. Tuesday, all seven pounds and 20 ½ inches of Dylan Pedroia began his quest to live up to the hype laid out by his father. Nine days before Kelli Pedroia’s due date – and one day after Dustin’s 26th birthday – the couple’s first child was delivered.
Rob Bradford
08/19/2009 - 7:50am
Five Things We Learned: Ortiz Offered a Pretty Hefty Reminder
David Ortiz is fighting perception. The belief in these parts of late – prior to the Red Sox’ 10-9 win over the Blue Jays on Tuesday night at the Rogers Centre in Toronto (recap) -- is that Ortiz hasn’t been giving the Red Sox what they desperately need, some kind of punch, anything close to that old Ortiz kind of giddy-up.
Rob Bradford
08/16/2009 - 8:51am
Five Things We Learned: Frustration Ruled the Night In Texas for Red Sox
These sort of games are frustrating enough in the innocuous setting of May or June, when the season is just starting to find its rhythm. But when they come at a time like August 15, against your most direct competition for postseason play, swallowing the results becomes appreciably more difficult. Saturday night’s 7-2 loss to the Rangers had to have left Red Sox manager Terry Francona with one of the most unappetizing feelings he’s experienced this season.
Rob Bradford
08/14/2009 - 7:54am
The Bradford Files: Wins, Not Votes, the Priority For Beckett
Josh Beckett knows what’s going on. He knows he’s pitching well. He understands what is working and what isn’t. And he isn’t turning a blind-eye to what might happen if he continues to keep doing what he’s doing.
Rob Bradford
08/11/2009 - 7:52am
Five Things We Learned: Ortiz, Red Sox Finally Found Some Normalcy
Through all of the chaos experienced in the Bronx over the previous four days, there was one fail-safe for David Ortiz. “I always feel good about this team,” he said while packing up to head home late Monday night. After the Red Sox’ 6-5 win over the Tigers, he now has company. The Boston baseball-playing universe had straightened itself out.
Rob Bradford
08/07/2009 - 8:02am
Five Things We Learned: Time Might Have Run Out On Smoltz
 NEW YORK – This was supposed to be the payoff. The contract, the rehab, and the seven previous starts were all leading to Thursday night’s showdown with the only team that Red Sox fans truly care about seeing their team beat – the Yankees. It didn’t work out. For John Smoltz, it hasn’t worked out.
Rob Bradford
08/06/2009 - 9:05am
Can Joba Be the Wake-Up Call the Red Sox Need?
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – The Red Sox left Tropicana Field a sleepy team.   After dropping yet another game at the home of the Rays – this one a 6-4 decision, Wednesday night – the Sox found themselves the victims of a two-game sweep and now 2 ½ games behind of the team they are heading to New York to play in a four-game set. Yet, depending on how you look at it, the perfect wake-up call might be waiting for the Red Sox in the Bronx. His name? Joba Chamberlain.  
Rob Bradford
08/05/2009 - 7:51am
Figuring Out What Was Good, Bad and Ugly In Red Sox Loss
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – Explaining exactly what happened Tuesday night wasn’t easy for those wearing the visiting gray and red. The Red Sox’ first step into the schedule’s meat and potatoes was, how should we say, uneven, to say the least. This was the irrefutable part: the Rays currently own the Sox at Tropicana Field, a reality that was brought to the surface once again thanks to Evan Longoria’s 13th-inning, walk-off, two-run homer against Sox reliever Takashi Saito.
Rob Bradford
07/31/2009 - 12:48am
Does David Ortiz' News Really Matter To Red Sox Fans?
David Ortiz hit a decisive home run Thursday afternoon. An entire ballpark stood and cheered until he came back out for a curtain call. It would be a safe bet that all of those people putting their hands together knew of the news that their hero had tested positive for performance-enhancing drugs six years earlier.   Remember this moment.  
Rob Bradford
07/25/2009 - 7:56am
Five Things We Learned: Home Is Where the Wins Are For Red Sox
In and around the Red Sox' 3-1 win over Orioles, Friday night, it was clear there had been some alterations since Fenway Park last saw their hometown team. Rocco Baldelli and Nick Green huddled to strategize when to hand over the "Rescue Squad" t-shirt to the newest member of the club, Adam LaRoche, signifying participation on the Sox' bench. Green fiddled with his "J.D. Drew" model outfielders glove in preparation for his potential new role as the Sox' fifth outfielder.
Rob Bradford
07/23/2009 - 8:18am
Five Things We Learned: What Has -- and Hasn't -- Changed For the Red Sox
This is Theo Epstein before last night:  
Rob Bradford
07/21/2009 - 8:53am
Five Things We Didn't Learn: Problems Not Solved For Red Sox
Normally this space is reserved for "Five Things We Learned" regarding the previous night's Red Sox game. Yet that hardly seems appropriate after the Sox' latest loss, a 6-3 defeat at the hands of the Texas Rangers. This time we're going with "Five Things We Still Haven't Learned." It only seems fitting. As we sit here, 10 days out from the non-waiver trade deadline, the Red Sox sit in a position perhaps not previously seen in these parts at this time of year. They continue to have questions, but nobody really seems to have any semblance of answers.
Rob Bradford
07/18/2009 - 8:25am
Five Things We Learned: Buchholz Has Made His Presence Felt
Last August, after a start in Chicago in which he surrendered five runs in just three innings, Clay Buchholz confessed to his father. "I can't wait for this season to be over," the Red Sox hurler said. Now, Buchholz probably wishes it would go on forever. The longer the campaign, you see, the more chances he might get to experience moments like the one that came around Friday night in Toronto.
Rob Bradford
07/17/2009 - 7:41am
Halladay, Bay and Holliday Fend Off Distractions
Roy Halladay is tired of talking about it. The same can be said for Jason Bay, as well as Matt Holliday. As all three have discovered, when waking up everyday entrenched in the world of baseball rumors, silence and dismissals can be the best medicine. For instance... Halladay just prior to Tuesday night's All-Star Game: “I really have had to deal with it twice, when it first came out and once I leave here I'll probably be done talking about it. It's an out of mind out of sight kind of thing.”
Rob Bradford
07/15/2009 - 9:07am
Five Things We Learned: For Wakefield, No Pitches, Plenty of Smiles
ST. LOUIS -- Tim Wakefield stood answering question after question about a game he didn't even play in when Victor Martinez strolled by. "I was ready for you," the Cleveland Indians' catcher told Wakefield, referring to the opportunity to catch the knuckleballer in Tuesday night's 4-3 American League win in the All-Star Game, at Busch Stadium. "Next time," the Red Sox hurler responded.
Rob Bradford
07/14/2009 - 8:39am
Papelbon Already Eyeing The Hall
ST. LOUIS -- The doors opened and Jonathan Papelbon appeared. Of all the American League All-Stars made available for the traditional media get-together, the Red Sox' closer usually offers the most interesting analysis, and the reporters knew it. Last year it came in the form of Papelbon insinuating he wanted to close out the win for the A.L. in New York, ahead of the Yankees' Mariano Rivera, a topic that undoubtedly would resurface. The Red Sox' closer was ready.
Rob Bradford
07/11/2009 - 8:45am
Five Things We Learned: Lester Has Entered Elite Company
It was three days before Jon Lester tossed eight more scoreless innings against what would figure to be his favorite team to pitch against, the Royals. It was well ahead of the Sox' starter leading his team to Friday night's 1-0 win over KC, while having still not allowed an earned run in three career Fenway Park starts against the Royals. But Josh Beckett knew of what he spoke when talking about Lester.
Rob Bradford
07/08/2009 - 7:58am
So, Do the Red Sox Really Have a Chance at Halladay?
The question was: “Who is the toughest pitcher you’ve faced?” David Ortiz’ answer was swift and decisive. “Roy Halladay,” the Red Sox’ DH said, “he’s nasty.” That was one month ago, and nothing has changed. It is, in fact, an answer that most likely won’t be altered for some time now.


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.

John Lackey postgame gues…

John Lackey postgame guest after the last game of the Minnesota series

Joe Castiglione talked with John Lackey after he picked up the W against the Twins. Lackey threw seven innings, and retired the 1st twelve batters of the game.

John Farrell pregame before the last game of the Minnesota series

Dave O'Brien talked to John Farrell before the end of the Twins series. The Sox skipper said that Big Papi's success is no surprise given his work ethic.

John Farrell postgame press conference

John Farrell postgame press conference

Andy Brickley, NESN: Go w…

Andy Brickley, NESN: Go with the young guys at D

Brickley joins the show and discusses what the Bruins should do with their young defensemen once the veterans return from injury, the play of Rask, and Torterella's coaching style.

Shawn Thornton on the Bruins game 2 win

Shawn joined the show to discuss the teams great performance in game two against the Rangers. Shawn said that he wouldn't mind playing for John Tortorella because he seems like a funny guy.

Dale and DJ Continue Their Preview of Bruins/Rangers and Discuss the Power Play on Sports Sunday

Dale and DJ roll on with their puck talk and chat some more about the goalie matchup in this series, as well as the lack of a quality power play for both of these teams. In fact, DJ says the Rangers are even worse on the PP than the B’s! The guys also get into the resurgence of Milan Lucic and his deceptive speed and grit. Dale and DJ talk about the similar styles of play for these teams and look forward to Game 2.

Can the Rangers turn thin…

Can the Rangers turn things around?

Kirk and Gerry talked about game three tonight at Madison Square Garden between the Bruins and Rangers. Gerry and Kirk are not very confident in the ability of the Rangers to make this a series.

Shawn Thornton on the Bruins game 2 win

Shawn joined the show to discuss the teams great performance in game two against the Rangers. Shawn said that he wouldn't mind playing for John Tortorella because he seems like a funny guy.

Things you would never do

John, Gerry and Kirk give their things that they would never do, listeners joined on the WEEI yakoff app with their thoughts.

Andy Brickley, NESN: Go w…

Andy Brickley, NESN: Go with the young guys at D

Brickley joins the show and discusses what the Bruins should do with their young defensemen once the veterans return from injury, the play of Rask, and Torterella's coaching style.

Lyndon Byers on the Bruins defensemen situation

LB joins the show in studio to discuss the Bruins taking a 2-0 series lead against the Rangers and what Claude should do when Seidenberg, Redden, and Ference are ready to play.

Sox Talk- M&M discuss the winning streak and future of Ellsbury

Mut and Merloni get into a Red Sox discussion after a successful weekend in Minnesota. They discuss Pedroia, Lackey, and the future of Ellsbury with the Red Sox.

An Hour with Jack: Jack E…

An Hour with Jack: Jack Edwards joins Salk and Holley to break down a game two win and preview game three

What's better than a whole hour with NESN's Jack Edwards? Not much. We talk all hockey, all the time with Jack live from his study, with a "Loving Cup", whatever that is.

Bruins in complete control of Rangers two games into series

We talk hockey as the Bruins have had little problem taking a 2-0 series lead against the much talk about NY Rangers. Will this continue in games 3 and 4 at MSG? We discuss.

Salk and Holley's Four at Four - 05/21/13

We tackle four topics we haven't yet touched upon today. Gronk!, Proms with celebs and athletes and much more.

Daily Planet Monday May 2…

Daily Planet Monday May 20th

Today on the Daily Planet the Bruins have a 2-0 lead over the New york Rangers, the Red Sox are back on the winning sde of things, and the noteable birthdays of the day.

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

Salk and Holley's Miked U…

Salk and Holley's Miked Up and Answer the Question 05/21/13

....uhhhh.....a bunch of bombs over there....

Salk and Holley's Miked Up and Answer the Question - 05/17/13

Sounds like a prostate exam to me!

Salk and Holley's Miked Up and Answer the Question - 05/16/13

Damn New Yorkers!

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

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

Minor Details Ep. 49: Man…

Minor Details Ep. 49: Managerial development with Torey Lovullo and Arnie Beyeler

By and large, the focus of development in the minor leagues is on players. Still, there is a developmental path for coaches and managers in the farm system, as is evident from the fact that the previous two managers of the Red Sox' Triple-A affiliate in Pawtucket -- Torey Lovullo (2010) and Arnie Beyeler (2011-12) are now both on the Red Sox' big league coaching staff. They share their insights about the differences between player and coaching expectations in Triple-A vs. the majors, while discussing professional development from the perspective of former minor league managers who aspire to similar positions in the big leagues.

More from this show

Shawn Thornton on the Bru…

Shawn Thornton on the Bruins game 2 win

Shawn joined the show to discuss the teams great performance in game two against the Rangers. Shawn said that he wouldn't mind playing for John Tortorella because he seems like a funny guy.

More from this show

Things you would never do

Things you would never do

John, Gerry and Kirk give their things that they would never do, listeners joined on the WEEI yakoff app with their thoughts.

More from this show

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