David Ross, affectionately known as “Grandpa Rossy,” is a familiar name to baseball fans. He’s known for his long career as a catcher in Major League Baseball, playing for teams like the Los Angeles Dodgers, Boston Red Sox, Atlanta Braves, and, most notably, the Chicago Cubs.
But Ross is perhaps even more famous for helping the Cubs break their 108-year World Series drought in 2016 – a victory that cemented his place in baseball history.
After hanging up his cleats, Ross transitioned to the dugout, becoming the manager of the Chicago Cubs in 2019. He led the team for four seasons, navigating them through a period of change and rebuilding.
But like all good things, Ross’s tenure as Cubs manager came to an end in 2023. So, what is David Ross doing now? Let’s take a look at his post-Cubs life.
Life After the Chicago Cubs
David Ross’s departure from the Cubs marked the end of an era. He wasn’t just a manager; he was a beloved figure, a symbol of the team’s recent success.
His exit left many fans wondering about his next move. While Ross hasn’t completely disappeared from the public eye, he’s taking some time to figure out his next steps.
A Break from Baseball
Immediately following his dismissal from the Cubs, Ross expressed a desire to take a break from baseball. After years of playing and managing, he wanted to spend time with his family and recharge.
This isn’t surprising, considering the demanding nature of professional baseball. Managing a team like the Cubs, especially during a period of transition, can be incredibly stressful.
Exploring New Opportunities
Although Ross is enjoying his time off, he hasn’t ruled out a return to baseball in the future. He’s mentioned that he’s open to exploring different roles within the sport, perhaps in broadcasting or even in another managerial position down the line. With his experience and knowledge of the game, Ross would be a valuable asset to any team or organization.
Television Appearances
Ross has made a few appearances on television since leaving the Cubs. He’s known for his charismatic personality and insightful commentary, making him a natural fit for sports broadcasting.
He’s appeared on shows like ESPN’s “Baseball Tonight” and MLB Network, offering his analysis and opinions on the game.
| Television Show | Network | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Baseball Tonight | ESPN | Analyst |
| MLB Network | MLB Network | Analyst |
| Dancing with the Stars | ABC | Contestant |
“Dancing with the Stars”
Beyond baseball, Ross has also ventured into the world of reality television. In 2017, he competed on the popular show “Dancing with the Stars.”
Paired with professional dancer Lindsay Arnold, Ross showcased his moves and even made it to the finals, finishing in second place. His appearance on the show introduced him to a wider audience and demonstrated his fun-loving personality.
David Ross’s Baseball Legacy
While it remains to be seen what David Ross will do next, his impact on baseball is undeniable. Let’s take a closer look at some of his career highlights:
Playing Career
- World Series Champion: Ross won two World Series titles, one with the Boston Red Sox in 2013 and another with the Chicago Cubs in 2016.
- Veteran Leadership: Known for his strong work ethic and positive attitude, Ross was a respected leader in every clubhouse he entered. He mentored younger players and helped create a winning culture.
- Clutch Performer: Although not known for his offensive power, Ross had a knack for coming up big in key moments, delivering several clutch hits throughout his career.
Managerial Career
- Chicago Cubs Manager: Ross managed the Cubs from 2020 to 2023, leading them to the playoffs in the shortened 2020 season.
- Navigating a Transition: Ross guided the Cubs through a period of rebuilding, helping to develop young talent and lay the foundation for future success.
- “Grandpa Rossy”: His nickname, given to him by his younger teammates, reflected his role as a mentor and leader within the Cubs organization.
| Career Highlights | Team | Year(s) |
|---|---|---|
| World Series Champion | Red Sox | 2013 |
| World Series Champion | Cubs | 2016 |
| Cubs Manager | Cubs | 2020-2023 |
What the Future Holds for David Ross
David Ross is currently enjoying a well-deserved break from baseball, but his passion for the game remains strong. Whether he returns to the field, the broadcast booth, or pursues other opportunities, his future is bright. He’s proven himself to be a talented and resilient individual, and fans eagerly await his next move.
In Summary:
- David Ross is currently taking a break from baseball after his time as manager of the Chicago Cubs.
- He is spending time with his family and exploring new opportunities.
- Ross has appeared on television as a baseball analyst and is open to returning to the sport in some capacity.
- His legacy as a player and manager, especially his contribution to the Cubs’ historic World Series win, is secure.
FAQs
What teams did David Ross play for in MLB?
David Ross played for several teams during his MLB career, including the Los Angeles Dodgers, Boston Red Sox, Atlanta Braves, and the Chicago Cubs.
When did David Ross retire as a player?
David Ross retired as a player after the 2016 MLB season, following the Chicago Cubs’ World Series victory.
How long was David Ross the manager of the Chicago Cubs?
David Ross was the manager of the Chicago Cubs for four seasons, from 2020 to 2023.
Why is David Ross called “Grandpa Rossy?”
David Ross was nicknamed “Grandpa Rossy” by his younger teammates during his time with the Chicago Cubs because he was significantly older than many of them and often played a mentor role.
Did David Ross win a World Series as a manager?
While David Ross led the Cubs to the playoffs in 2020, he did not win a World Series as a manager. He won two World Series titles as a player, with the Red Sox in 2013 and the Cubs in 2016.