CHICAGO — A ripple is brewing in the heart of WrigleyField: According to multiple anonymous sources, former head coach David Ross is being considered for a return to the Cubs — not in his usual “hot seat” role, but as a special advisor to the team’s management. The move, if it happens, would cause MLB to look at the Cubs — and “Rossy” — in a completely different light.
Ross, who managed the Cubs from 2020 to 2023 with a 262‑284 record, before being replaced by Craig Counsell in November 2023, remains an emotional name in the hearts of Chicago fans.
Having made his mark with the 2016 MiLB finals championship with the Cubs as a player, Ross is always mentioned as an icon.
Now, more than a year after stepping down from the coaching role and remaining out of the MLB fold, Ross is reportedly in talks to “flip” the Cubs into a new role — one where he will help develop young players, foster a “winning culture,” and connect with the broader Cubs community. “Ross still loves the Cubs,” a team insider says. “He doesn’t want to be completely out of baseball; and the Cubs still see him as a part of the team that can’t be forgotten.”
If true, the return would have big implications:
Symbolically: Ross returns to the team he spent his entire playing and coaching career with, like a “pawn” reborn after a hiatus.
Strategically: The Cubs are entering a period of rejuvenation and rebuilding — having Ross around would bring the kind of experience that only someone who has played for and led the Cubs can bring.
On the media side: Ross’s “quiet” return will create a wave of cheers, stir nostalgia among fans — and send a clear message that the Cubs still respect the past and prepare for the future.
However, many questions remain unanswered:
How much power will the advisory role have? Will Ross be involved in day-to-day tactics, or will he be more of a symbol and mentor to the younger generation?
Does Ross intend to return to the head coaching chair? Although the advisory rumors are emerging, Ross has said that the “itch” to lead the team has not gone away.
And most importantly: Are the Cubs willing to “compromise” the relationship between Ross and the board to put him in a new role? Ross has mentioned his “disappointment” in leaving the team, but has also said that he “does not hold a grudge” against the organization.
Cubbies Crib
The team and Ross have yet to officially announce anything. But according to a source familiar with the situation, “negotiations are in the final stages and an announcement could come before Thanksgiving” — if true, Cubs fans will be in for a surprise winter.
One thing is for sure: Regardless of the role, Ross’s return would be a shock in the MLB industry — it’s rare for a player/coach to return to his former team in an advisory role, especially one that recently terminated his contract. If it happens, it would be another piece of history for the Cubs.
Outside of Wrigley, fans are waiting for an official announcement. One fan wrote on the forum: “If Rossy comes back, I’ll buy season tickets just to hear him tell stories in the bullpen.” Another said: “Ross took us to the top; if he’s just an advisor, at least he’s still here — still home.”
Meanwhile, within the team, some younger players are reportedly “very eager” for Ross to return — believing that “someone who played for and led the Cubs” will understand them better than any outside coach.
In short: rumors of Ross returning to the Cubs as an advisor are spreading, and if true, would mark one of the most remarkable turnarounds for the team in recent years. Fans, media, and MLB will be watching closely to see if Ross’s “homecoming” will be a happy ending or the beginning of an ambitious new chapter.
Leave a Reply