Chicago Cubs have lofty, but realistic expectations for David Ross

The Chicago Cubs have a fresh start this coming season with all eyes on David Ross and his first year managing a Cubs team looking to bounce back.

With a forgettable season behind them, the Chicago Cubs are looking ahead to a new season with a familiar face leading the club. New manager David Ross finds himself in a position with many expectations.

The decision to bring in the former catcher to replace former manager Joe Maddon was undoubtedly met with mixed reactions. Whether you wanted him or not “Grandpa Rossy” is here for the next few years.

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Despite a solid 15-year major league career with two World Series championships to his name, David Ross is entering new territory. So what should we expect out of the new skipper in his first year as manager?

If there is one thing to expect from a first-year manager with no coaching experience is mistakes. The man himself admitted he will make mistakes at his introductory press conference.

"“I’m going to make mistakes”, Ross said. “I don’t have all the answers, I know that going in. I’ve never played for a perfect manager. I don’t know that there is one out there. I’m going to communicate well, I think that’s key for me, and I’m going to rely heavily on my coaches.”"

It is perfectly fine to expect some imperfection from Ross. He is realistic and understands that this job won’t be easy by any means.

If there is one thing Ross has been adamant about going into next season is showing some tough love. Ross mentioned in his press conference he won’t be afraid to get on guys if he has too.

Theo Epstein has expressed that he feels Ross is the right addition for Cubs at this time. The President of Baseball operations feels Ross will fit right in as he has talked with players about Ross in the past.

Above all else, if there is one expectation we should see from David Ross is winning. Being a first year manager can only give Ross some many breaks.

"“I know what winning looks like”, Ross said. “I want to stay true to who I am. These guys responded to me when I was a player here. I don’t think that will change as a manager.”"

The two-time World Series champion needs to win regardless of what may happen next year. The window for the Chicago Cubs is seemingly closing little by little.

With a roster that features names like Javier Báez, Kris Bryant, Anthony Rizzo, and Willson Contreras just to name a few; Ross has to win. It is already apparent this roster may not have all these names in the next few years.

Adjusting to David Ross as a manager will be a process and have some bumps and bruises. However, Ross needs to show he can make an immediate impact with a Chicago Cubs team that is capable of performing at a high level.

The time is now for Ross to put to any skepticism to bed. By the way things look, he seems ready to take on the challenge and he has the tools to do so.