Chicago Cubs: The importance of catcher David Ross

David Ross is an important factor in the long-term development of the Chicago Cubs 2014 first round draft pick Kyle Schwarber. The 22-year-old, former Indiana University standout has turned to Ross for guidance throughout his 24 games MLB career.

Aug 3, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Chicago Cubs catcher David Ross (right) chases Pittsburgh Pirates first baseman Sean Rodriguez (3) back to third base to tag Rodriguez out as Pirates right fielder Gregory Polanco (left) and Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant (17) look on during the third inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

In mid-June, the Chicago Cubs decided to call up Schwarber for a six-game stint against two American League teams so he could fill the role of designated hitter. His job was to get a feel for Major League pitching as well as pick the brain of the veteran catchers on the Chicago Cubs roster. Cubs President of Baseball Operations Theo Epstein outlined the main purpose of Schwarber’s first call up.

"He’ll really benefit from seeing what goes into being a major league catcher, seeing how much preparation there is, how to work with the scouting reports.,all that pregame preparation. I think he’ll benefit in that way."

Ross isn’t a long-term solution at the catcher position for the Chicago Cubs. However, his contributions to the development of Schwarber will have long-term implications. Now that Schwarber has once again been called up to the MLB, this time, while the Cubs are in a playoff race, his ability to learn quickly, is even more crucial.

From the outset, people questioned whether Schwarber was good enough defensively to play catcher in the MLB. Although he may not play this position long-term moving forward, Schwarber is doing everything in his power to learn more about the position. Ross said that Schwarber comes to the ballpark every game looking to become better.

"He obviously is a very talented player. He’s a good kid. He asks a lot of questions, and he’s real receptive. The word you hear tossed around is ‘sponge.’ He takes it all in. He’s got a lot of leadership qualities. He’s impressive for a young guy. –Quoted obtained by ESPN writer Mark Schmetzer"

As the next sections will prove if Schwarber wants to become a better catcher, Ross is the guy to turn towards for advice.

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