Did the Chicago Cubs do David Ross dirty by dumping him for free-agent manager Craig Counsell?
In a recent interview with Jim Henry of the Tallahassee Democrat, Ross spoke for the first time about Jed Hoyer’s decision and his time with the Cubs.
“I think the thing that comes over me is that I am extremely thankful for the opportunity, to be honest,” Ross said. “I am really thankful for the four years I got, coming from zero coaching experience to getting the chance to manage such a great organization that has impacted my life in a great way.”
While Ross appreciated his time as the skipper of his former team, he admitted he was a bit upset about Jed Hoyer's decision to make a change.
“I get mad from time to time but I have a lot to be thankful for.”
The longtime MLB catcher made his coaching debut with the Cubs in 2020. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Ross kicked off his managerial career with a shortened 60-game season, with new policies and procedures, and a lot of questions about whether he could handle the job. He answered those questions by leading the Cubs to a 34-26 record, an NL Central title, and a trip to the playoffs.
After finishing no better than third place in the division the next two seasons, the Cubs were on the cusp of a postseason berth in 2023 with nearly a 95% chance of making the playoffs early in September. However, the North Siders collapsed down the stretch by losing 15 of their last 22 games, once again leaving them out the outside looking in at the end of the season.
“If my boss doesn’t think I am a good manager, then he should move on,” Ross said of his firing. “I don’t fault (Hoyer) for that. If he doesn’t think I am the right guy, that’s his job. That’s his choice. I have my own thoughts and opinions that I will keep to myself.”
Ross finished his Cubs managerial career with a 262-284 record (.480 winnings percentage) and one playoff appearance. With several openings around MLB this offseason, Ross should at least be in the mix for some clubs if he chooses to continue managing.
Let’s just hope he doesn’t decide to manage Counsell’s old team in Milwaukee. Wouldn’t that be ironic?
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