“I NEVER TRULY LEFT THE CUBS”: ROSS REUNITES WITH THE ORGANIZATION
WRIGLEY FIELD ERUPTS WITH EMOTION as David Ross—locker-room legend and the heartbeat of the Cubs’ 2016 championship run—has officially agreed to return to the Chicago organization’s coaching staff for the 2026 season, according to multiple sources.
The stunning comeback, just two years after he was unceremoniously fired as manager and replaced by Craig Counsell, is being called “a breath back into the soul of Cubs Nation,” reigniting the palpable emotional connection that defined his playing and early managerial career.
Ross will reportedly take on a Senior Advisor to Player Development role, focusing on mentoring young players like Matt Shaw and Cade Horton, and working with both the minor and Major League coaching staffs.
MENDING FENCES AND FINDING HIS ROLE
Ross had been public about his desire to manage again, but after two years out of the dugout, he opted to accept a role that keeps him in the uniform and with the organization he loves. The move signifies a successful effort by President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer and Ross to mend the fences following his abrupt and controversial dismissal.
Ross reportedly told close colleagues that the move felt like coming home:
“I never truly left the Cubs. This has always been my family. The opportunity to get back to the field and help the next generation of Cubs is all I need.”
THE COUNSELL DYNAMIC: A NEW ERA OF COOPERATION
The most intriguing aspect of the return is the dynamic it creates with current manager Craig Counsell. While Counsell was hired over Ross in a move that mirrored the Joe Maddon/Rick Renteria swap years ago, sources indicate the two have already spoken and are committed to cooperation.
Ross’s role will focus heavily on culture, player relationships, and leadership—areas he famously excelled at—rather than the day-to-day tactical decision-making handled by Counsell.
The entire community is excited by the prospect of “Grandpa Rossy” back in the dugout and clubhouse, blending the beloved tradition of the 2016 team with the hyper-modern focus of the Counsell era. His presence is seen as a massive emotional boost for a team that missed the playoffs last year and is fighting to keep pace in the competitive NL Central.
