Latest Cubs coaching staff could hint at David Ross landing a managerial opening

There was surprise among Chicago Cubs fans when third base coach Willie Harris was not among the departures from the Cubs' coaching staff at the end of the season.

Following the end of the regular season two weeks ago, the Cubs wasted no time in announcing changes to their coaching staff. Among the dismissals were first base coach Mike Napoli, assistant hitting coach Jim Adduci, and bullpen coach Darren Holmes.

Harris' send decisions this past season frequently drew the ire of fans, but as the Cubs approached the end of the season, it seemed that the former Chicago White Sox infielder would remain on the team's coaching staff. That was until Friday when news broke that the Cubs and Willie Harris had agreed to part ways.

The reporting around Harris' departure from the Cubs does seem different from when the team announced its coaching staff decisions at the end of the season. Even during Jed Hoyer's end-of-season press conference, the Cubs' president suggested that the coaches in place would have the opportunity to remain with the organization.

Willie Harris could be reunited with a former Chicago Cubs' manager.

While speaking about Harris' departure from the Cubs coaching staff, Laurence Holmes and Matt Spiegel of 670 The Score suggested that the move could have been made because the veteran coach had a better opportunity elsewhere.

The scenario that the Score's afternoon show was expanding upon was centered around the managerial vacancy of the Chicago White Sox. Prior to Terry Francona being named the Cincinnati Reds' manager, Spiegel revealed that former Cubs' manager David Ross was having preliminary talks with the Reds. One of the scenarios discussed was Ross being named the next White Sox manager, with Harris returning to the organization he once played for. Harris has also been open about his desire to be a manager at the Major League level but it's not known if he is a candidate for the White Sox opening.

For the Cubs, Craig Counsell's new coaching staff will likely be revealed shortly after the conclusion of the World Series.