Former Chicago Cubs manager David Ross is speaking out for the first time since being fired by the team earlier this week.
In an exclusive interview with Jim Henry, Democrat of Tallahassee, Florida.Ross said he gets “angry sometimes,” but is more focused on the opportunity he has to manage the Cubs.
To be honest, I think it means I’m very grateful for this opportunity. There were a lot of people who worked really hard with me…really in those four years from having zero coaching experience to having the opportunity to manage such an amazing organization that had a huge impact on my life. I am grateful. “He said.
In four seasons as Cubs manager, Ross compiled a record of 262-284 and led the team to the Central Division championship in 2020. He had 83 RBIs in 2023, helping the Cubs get above .500 for the first time in three seasons. His final season as manager was -79.
The team said they were happy with his performance, but that changed with Craig Counsell becoming available. When his contract with the Milwaukee Brewers expired, Counsell became a sought-after free agent in the managerial market, and the Cubs signed him to a five-year contract, making him the highest-paid manager in MLB history.
Director of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer, who held a confidential meeting with Cubs advisors after the beginning of the month, said parting ways with Ross were a difficult decision.
“On behalf of the Cubs, I would like to express our deep gratitude to David for his contributions to our club both on and off the field,” he said in a statement. “First as a player and then as a coach, David continued to demonstrate his ability as a leader. David’s legacy will be felt in Chicago for generations, and his influence on our organization will be felt in Chicago for generations to come. It will overlap with the legend of
As for what’s next, Ross didn’t elaborate on specific plans, but he did explain his thinking in an interview: You can read it on the Democratic Party website.
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