Jim Murray – 98.5 The Sports Hub Contract, Net Worth, Detailed Information: Career Overview and Financial Insights
Jim Murray’s spot at 98.5 The Sports Hub feels even more secure now that Beasley Media Group has picked up his contract option. That means he’s sticking around on one of Boston’s top radio shows, which is honestly a relief for a lot of listeners who’ve grown attached to his takes. As a trusted voice on the “Felger and Mazz” afternoon program, Murray has built a loyal audience with his sharp commentary and, well, a knack for stirring the pot just enough.
The public announcement of his contract renewal put an end to all that speculation about whether he’d move to a different time slot. Fans can relax for now.
When you look past his contract, things like net worth, career milestones, and his evolving role at the Sports Hub round out the bigger picture of Jim Murray’s place in Boston media. He’s been a steady force behind the station’s strong ratings.
A lot of fans are just happy they’ll get more broadcasts from one of the city’s standout sports personalities. If you’re curious about the specifics of his current deal, recent updates confirm that Murray’s value to the Sports Hub hasn’t slipped.
Contents
Jim Murray’s Role at 98.5 The Sports Hub
Jim Murray, or “Big Jim” as most know him, plays a key role in the daily energy and content at 98.5 The Sports Hub. Boston sports talk radio has come to rely on his honest insights and steady on-air presence.
Position and Show Responsibilities
Since 2015, Jim Murray has co-hosted the Felger & Mazz afternoon show. The show runs weekdays from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., and it’s consistently near the top of Boston’s radio rankings.
He brings a mix of humor, insight, and a sense of continuity to the broadcast. Murray doesn’t just offer opinions on the latest sports news—he also keeps conversations on track, using his experience to guide lively debates.
He regularly engages with callers, offers instant takes on local teams, and helps organize the show’s segments. His presence is crucial, especially when things get heated between co-hosts.
Here’s a quick look at his main responsibilities:
| Responsibility | Description |
|---|---|
| Co-hosting afternoon show | Drives discussion and adds analysis |
| Listener engagement | Fields and responds to live calls |
| Segment planning | Helps structure the daily topics and debates |
| Sports news commentary | Shares up-to-date takes on Boston sports |
Collaboration with Felger and Mazz
Jim’s chemistry with Mike Felger and Tony Massarotti is honestly a big part of why Felger & Mazz stays so popular. Felger throws out bold opinions, Tony brings in the stats and history, and Murray? He grounds the whole thing with his wit and a bit of skepticism.
He steps in to cut through arguments and keeps the show from going totally off the rails. When debates get tense, Murray’s steady hand helps keep things moving.
Listeners seem to appreciate him as the show’s unofficial mediator. He’ll drop in statistics or a reality check right when it’s needed.
This team approach gives their show a different flavor compared to the more standard sports talk on other Boston stations.
Involvement with Other Hosts and Shows
While most people know Jim Murray for his afternoon work, he doesn’t just stick to Felger & Mazz. Sometimes he pops up on other station programs, especially for special events or crossovers.
When Rich Shertenlieb left the morning show, Toucher and Rich, people floated Murray’s name as a possible replacement. That says a lot about his reputation and versatility at 98.5 The Sports Hub.
The station sometimes rotates him into off-air shows, digital content, and podcasts. Management clearly values what he brings.
No matter where he shows up, Murray delivers thoughtful, informed takes. That helps keep 98.5 The Sports Hub at the top of Boston sports talk.
You can find more updates about his contract and involvement on the station’s official archive.
Contract Details and Compensation
Jim Murray’s position at 98.5 The Sports Hub feels more stable since his contract renewal. His pay and contract situation reflect what he means to Boston radio, especially as the industry keeps shifting.
Current Contract Structure
Jim Murray is part of the “Felger & Mazz” afternoon show with Beasley Media Group at 98.5 The Sports Hub. In early 2024, he confirmed publicly that Beasley picked up his contract option, giving him a one-year extension.
He talked about it on Facebook Live, and his colleagues mentioned it on air after. His deal is year-to-year, not a long-term contract—a pretty common thing at 98.5 The Sports Hub. Both coworkers and fans have pointed out the lack of long-term security.
Other stations like Audacy’s WEEI are facing financial pressures and layoffs in the Boston area. Even so, Beasley Media Group decided to keep Murray for at least another year.
Salary and Earnings Over Time
Nobody’s published the exact numbers, but Jim Murray’s pay has gone up as “Felger & Mazz” has gotten more successful. Reports suggest that core hosts at 98.5 The Sports Hub can make anywhere from $150,000 to $400,000 a year, depending on their seniority and impact on ratings.
Since Murray’s been with the show since its start in 2009, he’s probably in the higher range for supporting hosts.
Here’s a table with estimated salary levels in Boston sports radio:
| Position | Estimated Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Main Host (98.5) | $350,000 – $500,000 |
| Co-host/Supporting Host | $150,000 – $400,000 |
| Main Host (WEEI) | $275,000 – $450,000 |
He gets regular raises linked to performance and market trends. That’s helped his net worth rise along with his profile in Boston media.
Comparison Within Boston Sports Radio
Compared to other Boston radio personalities, Jim Murray’s contract puts him in a solid spot, though not at the very top. Main anchors at 98.5 like Michael Felger get the biggest paychecks, thanks to longer-term deals and more negotiating power.
Murray, as a co-host, earns less but still does well because “Felger & Mazz” is so popular. Rival stations like WEEI have been hit with cuts and short-term contracts are more common now.
Across Boston, talent faces similar short-term deals. In that context, Beasley Media Group’s decision to renew Murray’s contract shows they trust his value, even as budgets stay tight.
Net Worth and Financial Profile
Jim Murray, best known from 98.5 The Sports Hub’s “Felger & Mazz,” has built a solid career in Boston sports radio. His income comes from his contract at the station and a handful of side gigs.
Estimated Net Worth Breakdowns
With his one-year extension at 98.5 The Sports Hub through Beasley Media Group, Murray’s financial outlook looks pretty healthy. Sports radio hosts in Boston usually make between $100,000 and $300,000 a year.
Because he’s on a top-rated afternoon show, his contract is probably on the higher end. He might also get performance bonuses tied to ratings.
A safe estimate puts Murray’s net worth between $500,000 and $1 million. That includes his salary, bonuses, past earnings, and extra income from radio appearances or weekend hosting.
| Category | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Annual Salary | $100,000 – $300,000 |
| Bonuses | $10,000 – $20,000 |
| Net Worth | $500,000 – $1,000,000 |
| Other Media | $10,000 – $50,000 |
Investments and Side Ventures
Jim Murray has found ways to earn outside his main radio gig. He hosts weekend programs at 98.5 and contributes to podcasts, which could bring in extra money from sponsorships or advertising.
He sometimes does private speaking engagements and guest spots. These gigs aren’t always public, but they can pay anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars per event.
There’s no sign he’s involved in big investments or major outside businesses. He mostly sticks to media and communication jobs.
Social media and digital content, like podcasts, add another revenue stream. All that helps him keep a stable financial outlook and a strong presence in the industry.
Broadcasting Career and Achievements
Jim Murray has earned a strong reputation in Boston sports media through a mix of hard work and consistency. He’s been at it for over two decades, covering radio, TV, and digital stuff with a style that just clicks with sports fans.
Early Radio Experience
Jim Murray got his start in Melrose, Massachusetts, where he grew up. After college, he worked at several radio stations across different states.
He spent some time at WFNX in Boston, where he honed his on-air skills and fell in love with radio. Later, he took on roles at 92.9 The Game in Atlanta and Connoisseur Media.
Each job gave him a chance to work with new teams and audiences, helping him sharpen his approach to sports radio. He had a knack for connecting with listeners and made a mark everywhere he went.
By the early 2000s, Murray was producing content for SiriusXM and Pandora. That gave him experience in both talk and music radio, which set him up for later success in Boston.
Awards and Major Recognition
Jim Murray has earned respect for his insight and professionalism. He hasn’t won a Marconi Award, but people in Greater Boston sports radio circles know him for his steady voice and solid contributions to team coverage.
His work on “Felger & Mazz” at 98.5 The Sports Hub helped the show rack up high ratings and plenty of praise. Industry folks often point to his chemistry with co-hosts as a big reason for the show’s success.
Award Wins and Nominations
| Year | Award | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | Boston Radio Hall | Nominated |
| 2020 | SportsRadio Ratings | Ranked Top-3 |
| N/A | Marconi Award | Not Awarded |
Career Development at Boston Media
Jim Murray joined 98.5 The Sports Hub in 2009 as part of the “Felger & Mazz” afternoon show. That was right when Boston sports radio was starting to shift in a big way.
His chemistry with Michael Felger and Tony Massarotti helped turn the show into a leader in Boston sports talk. Murray’s role grew beyond just radio—he popped up on NBC Sports Boston and pitched in on digital platforms.
He also became a regular on the Patriots Radio Network broadcast team. In 2024, Beasley Media Group extended his contract, showing they value what he brings to the station and its listeners.
His mix of humor, insight, and local sports knowledge keeps him relevant in Boston’s sports media scene.
Jim Murray’s Influence in Boston Sports Media
Jim Murray stands out as one of the main voices in Boston sports talk radio. His style has shaped sports conversations across Greater Boston and even further, bringing fresh perspective to talk about the Patriots, Red Sox, Bruins, and Celtics.
Impact on Boston Sports Coverage
Jim Murray has spent over twenty years working with major outlets like 98.5 The Sports Hub, NBC Sports Boston, and Patriots.com. You’ll hear him most on 98.5 The Sports Hub’s “Felger and Mazz,” where he’s helped shape the station’s unique, analytical style of local sports coverage.
He mixes humor with blunt criticism and doesn’t hesitate to share controversial opinions. When he breaks down New England Patriots games—especially after the final whistle—fans and journalists often zero in on his takes.
Murray stands out because he highlights under-reported angles in stories about the Bruins and Celtics. That’s something a lot of hosts just don’t do.
He’s got a knack for making complicated topics sound simple. Whether he’s explaining trade rumors or new league rules, he uses plain language and keeps it approachable.
A lot of Boston sports fans and even media critics now see the show as essential listening, largely thanks to this approach.
Audience and Ratings Performance
“Felger and Mazz,” with Murray in the co-host seat, leads the pack in Boston sports radio ratings. Nielsen data shows the show’s dominated the afternoon drive slot for years now.
The station mainly targets men ages 25-54, which is the sweet spot for sports advertisers.
Take a look at the recent ratings snapshot for “Felger and Mazz” compared to other Boston sports talk shows:
| Show/Station | Afternoon Ratings (Men 25-54) | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Felger and Mazz (98.5) | 13.0+ Share | #1 in Market |
| WEEI Afternoons | 5.0-7.0 Share | #2-3 in Market |
| 92.9 The Ticket (others) | <3.0 Share | Below Top 3 |
With high ratings comes real influence in Boston’s sports media world. Murray’s voice on the top-rated show means his opinions actually shape public sentiment and even how other outlets cover teams.
His strong presence has led to contract extensions and more responsibilities—like hosting postgame shows for the Patriots and Bruins.
If you want more on Jim Murray’s contract or his latest contributions, check the official Patriots Radio Network Broadcast Team page or this summary on his recent contract renewal.
Media Presence and Platforms
Jim Murray has built a solid profile in Boston’s sports media scene. He uses online platforms and interacts with both radio listeners and digital audiences, so his reach goes way beyond old-school broadcasting.
Digital and Social Media Engagement
He’s pretty active online and keeps fans engaged. You’ll catch him on Facebook Live a lot, offering real-time takes and updates about his role and what’s happening in Boston sports.
Those sessions pull in plenty of viewers, giving him a direct line to his audience.
He also co-hosts podcasts and digital segments tied to 98.5 The Sports Hub. In those, he dives into sports news, talks through game results, and shares personal opinions.
You can find these shows on all the big platforms, so fans have no trouble listening whenever they want.
Here’s a quick table of his main digital outlets:
| Platform | Content Type | Engagement Style |
|---|---|---|
| Facebook Live | Live video Q&A | Direct fan questions |
| Sports Hub Podcasts | Audio shows | Analysis, discussion |
| Off Air Show Segments | Behind the scenes | Candid broadcasting |
He keeps up a steady stream of posts and activity, so people don’t forget about him when he’s off the air.
Interactions with Fans
Murray has a reputation for talking directly to listeners. He answers questions during Facebook Live sessions, which really closes the gap between him and the audience.
Fans get a chance to ask about contract details, show operations, or Boston sports controversies, and Murray gives honest, sometimes blunt, answers.
He also responds to feedback from the afternoon show’s audience—whether it’s through social media or live call-ins. This two-way communication builds loyalty and keeps his bond with Boston sports fans strong.
People know him for his sharp commentary, quick replies, and genuine opinions. Whether things are light or serious, fans expect him to keep it real.
Personal Life and Interests
Away from the microphone, Jim Murray stays closely connected to Greater Boston. He’s known for his candid personality and for valuing time with family, Boston sports, and local listeners.
Background and Early Life
Jim Murray grew up in Boston, and he talks about it often when he’s on 98.5 The Sports Hub. His love for Boston sports started early, and he’s always rooted for the Patriots, Bruins, Celtics, and Red Sox.
That early exposure to the city’s sports scene shaped his whole career and lets him relate to Boston fans in a way that feels authentic.
His background is all about lifelong Boston ties. He went to local schools and worked his way into sports broadcasting, starting out in regional radio before landing at the Sports Hub.
A lot of listeners call him “Big Jim,” a nickname that fits his big personality on air.
Here’s a quick look at some of his bio highlights:
| Detail | Fact |
|---|---|
| Hometown | Boston, MA |
| Favorite Sports Team | Patriots |
| Show Affiliation | Felger & Mazz |
| Years at Sports Hub | Over 10 |
Community and Charitable Engagements
Besides radio, Murray sometimes gets involved in community activities around Greater Boston. He’s not as publicly tied to big charities as some, but he does use his platform to support local causes and shine a light on community stories.
Listeners might catch him mentioning neighborhood events or fundraisers for local sports programs. He often promotes goodwill among fans or brings attention to smaller causes that Boston sports fans care about.
He’ll even share game day food recommendations now and then, showing he’s got interests outside just sports talk.
All this just makes his connection to the Boston area even stronger, and listeners appreciate that.
Industry Challenges and Market Overview
Boston’s sports radio market is intense and always changing. Hosts like Jim Murray deal with unique pressures in one of the most crowded sports radio markets in the country.
Competitive Landscape in Boston Radio
Boston has several big sports talk stations—98.5 The Sports Hub, WEEI, and some run by national groups like iHeart. They’re all fighting for ratings, ad dollars, and loyal listeners.
Felger & Mazz on 98.5 The Sports Hub, where Murray co-hosts, usually grabs the top spot in afternoon drive ratings.
The competition stays fierce, with WEEI regularly challenging for top time slots.
On-air personalities play a huge role in this landscape. Boston radio fans get attached to their favorite hosts, so stations have to work hard to keep talent around.
| Station | Owner | Key Show | 2024 PM Ratings Rank |
|---|---|---|---|
| 98.5 The Sports Hub | Beasley Media Group | Felger & Mazz | 1 |
| WEEI | Audacy | Gresh & Fauria | 2 |
| WROR | Beasley Media Group | Afternoon Drive | 3 |
Business and Economic Factors
Boston radio, honestly, never sits still beneath all those flashy ratings. Station owners deal with rising costs, shaky ad revenue, and listeners who keep drifting toward streaming apps.
In 2024, Audacy—the company behind WEEI—ran into bankruptcy challenges that rattled staff security and squeezed programming budgets. Beasley Media Group, which owns The Sports Hub, has gotten pretty cautious, using year-to-year contracts and slow renewals, like what happened with Jim Murray’s deal.
These business headaches really shape whether stations can hang onto their best people. When money’s tight, you get staff cuts, programming changes, or less investment in new tech.
Sports radio feels this tug-of-war between local owners, big national chains, and digital upstarts. It all changes how fans and hosts connect with the game on air.
