What Happened to David Wade Ross?
David Ross is a former Major League Baseball catcher and manager, known for his playing career with two World Series championships and his tenure as manager of the Chicago Cubs. After being dismissed by the Cubs in late 2023, Ross has transitioned back into broadcasting, signing a multi-year deal with ESPN as an MLB analyst in March 2026, and is also serving as the bullpen coach for Team USA in the 2026 World Baseball Classic.
Quick Answer
David Ross, the former MLB catcher and Chicago Cubs manager, is currently serving as the bullpen coach for Team USA in the 2026 World Baseball Classic. Additionally, in March 2026, he signed a multi-year contract to return to ESPN as an MLB analyst, a role he previously held. Ross was dismissed as the Cubs' manager in November 2023 after four seasons, despite leading the team to a playoff appearance in 2020.
📊Key Facts
📅Complete Timeline14 events
Born in Bainbridge, Georgia
David Wade Ross was born in Bainbridge, Georgia, and raised in Tallahassee, Florida.
MLB Debut with Los Angeles Dodgers
Ross made his Major League Baseball debut with the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Wins First World Series with Boston Red Sox
As a catcher, Ross was a key member of the Boston Red Sox team that won the World Series.
Joins Chicago Cubs
Ross signed with the Chicago Cubs, quickly becoming a respected veteran leader and earning the nickname 'Grandpa Rossy'.
Last MLB Appearance as a Player
Ross played his final MLB game as a player with the Chicago Cubs.
Wins Second World Series with Chicago Cubs
Ross concluded his playing career by winning the World Series with the Chicago Cubs, hitting a memorable home run in Game 7.
Begins First Stint as ESPN Analyst
After retiring from playing, Ross joined ESPN as an MLB analyst, a role he held until 2019.
Hired as Chicago Cubs Manager
The Chicago Cubs announced David Ross as their new manager, signing him to a three-year contract.
Leads Cubs to NL Central Title
In his first season as manager, Ross guided the Cubs to a National League Central Division title in the shortened season.
Cubs Extend Managerial Contract
The Cubs extended Ross's contract through the 2024 season, with a club option for 2025.
Dismissed as Cubs Manager
Despite a winning record in 2023, Ross was fired by the Chicago Cubs, who subsequently hired Craig Counsell.
Named Team USA Bullpen Coach for 2026 WBC
Ross was announced as the bullpen coach for Team USA for the 2026 World Baseball Classic.
Returns to ESPN as MLB Analyst
David Ross signed a multi-year deal to return to ESPN as an MLB analyst for both game and studio coverage.
Launches 'The 2016 Cubs' Podcast with Anthony Rizzo
Ross and former Cubs teammate Anthony Rizzo launched a new podcast celebrating the 2016 World Series championship.
🔍Deep Dive Analysis
David Wade Ross, born March 19, 1977, carved out a distinguished career in Major League Baseball, first as a respected catcher and later as a manager. His playing career spanned 15 seasons with seven different teams, highlighted by two World Series titles: one with the Boston Red Sox in 2013 and another with the Chicago Cubs in 2016. Known affectionately as 'Grandpa Rossy' during his playing days with the Cubs, he was celebrated for his leadership, defensive prowess, and ability to handle pitching staffs. His dramatic home run in Game 7 of the 2016 World Series, at 39 years old, further cemented his legendary status in Chicago.
Following his retirement as a player in 2016, Ross transitioned into broadcasting, serving as an MLB analyst for ESPN from 2017 to 2019. His charisma and insightful commentary quickly made him a fan favorite. This media experience, combined with his deep understanding of the game and strong clubhouse presence, made him a natural fit for a managerial role. In October 2019, the Chicago Cubs hired Ross as their manager, succeeding Joe Maddon. He signed a three-year contract with a club option for 2023, later extended through 2024 with a 2025 club option.
Ross's managerial tenure with the Cubs, from 2020 to 2023, was marked by both challenges and successes. He guided the team to an NL Central Division title and a playoff berth in the pandemic-shortened 2020 season. However, the subsequent years saw the team undergo a significant rebuild, leading to a 262-284 managerial record over four seasons. Despite a strong finish in 2023, where the Cubs narrowly missed a Wild Card spot with an 83-79 record, Ross was unexpectedly dismissed on November 6, 2023, when the Cubs opted to hire Craig Counsell on a record-breaking contract.
After his departure from the Cubs, Ross took some time off, reportedly declining several bench coach opportunities in 2024. As of March 2026, David Ross has re-emerged in prominent baseball roles. He is currently serving as the bullpen coach for Team USA in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, showcasing his continued involvement in high-level baseball. Furthermore, in early March 2026, it was announced that Ross signed a multi-year deal to return to ESPN as an MLB analyst, resuming his successful broadcasting career. This move places him back in the public eye, offering his insights on the sport.
What If...?
Explore alternate histories. What if David Wade Ross made different choices?