Chicago Cubs: Considering David Ross for a future position

I don’t think there’s any question Chicago Cubs’ catcher David Ross has enjoyed his short time in the Windy City. While he’s ready to spend more time with family, is a position within the organization a possibility?

The Chicago Cubs organization has treated David Ross like baseball royalty in his “year-long retirement” celebration. It might not have been what Derek Jeter‘s was. But what started with a thank you gesture from Jason Heyward culminated in a fantastic story for Ross to tell his kids.

Ross was able to enjoy the long road trips during the season from a suite thanks to Heyward. Ross was in Atlanta when Heyward made his debut, and Heyward appreciated everything he had done for him. “Grandpa Rossy” was more than just a mascot. Outsiders may see a backup catcher receiving all this and think “how ridiculous”? But they don’t know the impact that Ross has had on these young players.

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In his final regular season game at Wrigley Field, Ross had to make it through several standing ovations–and one after he hit the go-ahead and eventually winning home run in that game. What does Ross think of all of this?

“I’m the backup catcher, and people walk around with Ross jerseys,” he said. “People are invested in every aspect of the team. They’re wrapped up in it. It’s great. And there’s so much anxiety. We want to do well for them.” h/t Jesse Rogers, ESPN Staff Writer

A “true” retirement?

Ross seems to be at peace with his retirement, although he said if he was offered a package that “blew his socks off”, he might consider. The Cubs aren’t likely to go that far, but that doesn’t mean his time is over in Chicago.

There’s a strong belief that Ross is manager material. Family time comes first for Ross, but what about after that? Will he miss being away from the game entirely? Ross and Anthony Rizzo have had a blast with the “father/son” relationship throughout the year. That’s the kind of impact he’s had. That’s why the Cubs should make a standing offer to Ross for a position within the organization.

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Maybe it will be a front office gig. Something just to stay part of the team in Chicago. The Cubs aren’t likely to have any available coaching positions on the field, so that would be a good place to start. Whatever the case is, the Cubs would be best served–if Ross chooses to stay a part of the game–to make sure it’s in Chicago.

Maybe years from now, Grandpa Rossy can tell tales of that amazing 2016 season in Chicago.