David Ross

David Ross is an American former professional baseball catcher and manager, best known for his veteran leadership and key roles on two championship teams. He played 15 seasons in Major League Baseball (MLB) for eight different clubs, winning the World Series with the Boston Red Sox in 2013 and famously with the Chicago Cubs in 2016. Following his playing career, he served as the manager of the Chicago Cubs from 2020 through 2023, guiding the team to a National League Central division title in his first season.

Early life and education

Ross was born and raised in Bainbridge, Georgia, where he was a multi-sport standout at Bainbridge High School. He excelled in both baseball and football, earning all-state honors as a quarterback. For his collegiate career, Ross attended Auburn University, playing college baseball for the Auburn Tigers. His performance with the Auburn Tigers caught the attention of professional scouts, and he was selected by the Los Angeles Dodgers in the seventh round of the 1998 Major League Baseball draft.

Baseball career

Ross made his MLB debut with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2002, appearing in eight games. His early career was marked by journeyman status, as he played for the Pittsburgh Pirates, San Diego Padres, and Cincinnati Reds, where he had a career-high 21 home runs in 2006. A respected defensive catcher and game-caller, Ross found a niche as a valued backup. He joined the Atlanta Braves in 2009, serving as a capable understudy to Brian McCann. His career experienced a late resurgence with the Boston Red Sox, with whom he won his first World Series ring in 2013, forming a strong battery with pitchers like Jon Lester. He followed Lester to the Chicago Cubs in 2015, where his veteran presence was instrumental in the club's historic 2016 championship, culminating in a home run in his final career at-bat during Game 7 of the 2016 World Series.

Coaching and managerial career

Immediately after retiring, Ross transitioned into a front office and broadcasting role with the Chicago Cubs, also serving as a special assistant to baseball operations. His leadership qualities made him a natural candidate for a managerial position. In 2019, he was named the 55th manager in Chicago Cubs history, succeeding Joe Maddon. In his debut 2020 season, shortened by the COVID-19 pandemic, he led the Cubs to the National League Central title and was a finalist for the National League Manager of the Year Award. He managed the team for four seasons, with his final year being 2023, before the Cubs opted for a change in leadership.

Personal life

Ross is married and has three children. He gained significant national recognition beyond baseball by competing on the popular ABC reality competition series Dancing with the Stars in 2017, where he finished in second place with professional dancer Lindsay Arnold. His memoir, Teammate: My Journey in Baseball and a World Series for the Ages, details his career and the Chicago Cubs' championship run. He remains a prominent figure in Chicago and is involved in various charitable endeavors.

Legacy and honors

Ross is celebrated as a quintessential clubhouse leader and winner, whose career arc from journeyman to iconic champion resonated deeply with fans. His two World Series championships, particularly the historic 2016 title with the Chicago Cubs, cemented his legacy in Major League Baseball history. The narrative of "Grandpa Rossy," as he was affectionately known, hitting a home run in his final game is a lasting part of World Series lore. His transition to managing the Chicago Cubs demonstrated the high regard in which he is held within the sport, ensuring his continued influence on the game.

Category:American baseball players Category:American baseball managers Category:Major League Baseball catchers