Justin Speier

2013

There was no outlook written for Justin Speier.

2009

Speier went from being one of the Angels’ best relievers in 2007 to one of their most-hittable last season. The two main reasons for his decline: he allowed 15 home runs and issued 27 walks in 2008 compared to only six home runs given up and 12 walks handed out the season before. His decline was so complete that he was left off the playoff roster, in favor of rookie Kevin Jepsen.

2008

Speier was one of the most effective middle relievers in the game in 2007. He was only 2-3 but had a sparkling 2.88 ERA and 47 strikeouts in 50 innings pitched while allowing batters to hit only .202 against him. Speier throws a low-90s fastball, a slider and a good splitter that is tough on left-handers. He will begin the season as the Angels best middle reliever, but could see time in the set-up role if Scot Shields’ struggles again for any significant period of 2008.

2007

Speier followed up a nice 2005 season with another solid year. He adequately set-up closer BJ Ryan and is expected to do the same for Francisco Rodriguez after having signed a four-year, $18 million contract with Anaheim.

2006

Speier posted a quietly dominant season as a setup man, and was particularly strong after a shaky 7.56 ERA in April. He'll combine with Jason Frasor to give Toronto quality late innings leading up to BJ Ryan. Consider him for staff-filler slots.

2005

Speier was part of the closer committee to start the season, but an elbow injury in mid-May sidelined him for nearly a month. Once healthy, he posted solid numbers from July 1 onward: 41.7 IP, 34 H, 15 BB, 33 K and 2.80 ERA. His struggles against lefties (7 HR allowed in 34.3 IP) could prevent him from playing a larger role in the late innings, however.

2004

The fact that Speier has made it this far is as much a testament to his desire as his forkball. Speier was drafted in the 55th round of the 1995 draft and has had to fight for everything he's gotten. A three-way December trade sent Speier to Toronto, where's expected to be a part of a late-inning committee for the Blue Jays.

2003

Another year of middle relief appears to be in the cards for Speier, who might be successful if used in late-inning situations for the right organization.