Brief Introduction of David Ross
David Wade Ross is a retired American professional baseball catcher and former manager of the Chicago Cubs. His career in Major League Baseball (MLB) spanned 15 seasons, playing for seven different teams. Known for his exceptional defensive skills, leadership, and veteran presence, Ross became a highly respected figure in the baseball community. He is a two-time World Series champion, winning with the Boston Red Sox in 2013 and the Chicago Cubs in 2016. The latter victory was particularly memorable as it ended the Cubs’ 108-year championship drought. After his playing career, Ross transitioned into a managerial role with the Cubs and also gained wider public recognition through his appearance on the reality television show “Dancing with the Stars.” His journey from a journeyman catcher to a beloved “Grandpa Rossy” and a World Series hero has solidified his place in baseball lore.
David Ross Overview
| Full Name | David Wade Ross |
| Date of Birth | March 19, 1977 |
| Age(as of 2025) | 48 |
| Birthplace | Bainbridge, Georgia, U.S. |
| Profession | Former Professional Baseball Catcher, Former MLB Manager |
| Husband/Wife | Hyla Ross (divorced in 2020) |
| Family | Parents: David Ross Sr. and Jackie Ross; Children: Landri, Cole, and Harper |
| Relationship/Affairs(GF/BF) | Information not publicly available |
| Net Worth | Approximately $11 million |
Early Life and Education of David Ross
David Wade Ross was born on March 19, 1977, in Bainbridge, Georgia, and was raised in Tallahassee, Florida. He was immersed in a sports-oriented family from a young age; his father, David Ross Sr., played in a men’s softball league, and his mother, Jackie, played basketball. This athletic environment undoubtedly influenced his future career path. Ross has two sisters, Shannon and Nikki. He attended Florida High School, the laboratory school of Florida State University, where he played baseball for the Demons.
After high school, Ross was drafted by the Los Angeles Dodgers in the 19th round of the 1995 MLB draft. However, he opted not to sign and instead accepted a scholarship to attend Auburn University. He played for the Auburn Tigers baseball team and was a key player in their journey to the 1997 College World Series. A highlight of his collegiate career was a walk-off home run against Florida State University in the NCAA regional tournament. Following the 1997 season, Ross transferred to the University of Florida, where he played for the Florida Gators. He once again reached the College World Series in 1998, making him one of the few players to have participated in the prestigious tournament with two different universities. After a successful junior year with the Gators, Ross was drafted again by the Los Angeles Dodgers, this time in the seventh round of the 1998 MLB draft, and he decided to begin his professional baseball journey.
David Ross’s Career
David Ross’s professional baseball career began after he was drafted by the Los Angeles Dodgers in 1998. He made his Major League Baseball debut with the Dodgers on June 29, 2002. Over his 15-season career, Ross played for a total of seven teams: the Los Angeles Dodgers (2002–2004), Pittsburgh Pirates (2005), San Diego Padres (2005), Cincinnati Reds (2006–2008), Boston Red Sox (2008, 2013–2014), Atlanta Braves (2009–2012), and the Chicago Cubs (2015–2016).
Throughout his career, Ross was highly regarded for his defensive prowess as a catcher and his ability to handle a pitching staff. While not always a marquee offensive player, he had moments of power, hitting a career-high 21 home runs with the Cincinnati Reds in 2006. His leadership and veteran presence were invaluable to the teams he played for.
Ross’s career is most notably defined by his two World Series championships. In 2013, he was a member of the Boston Red Sox team that defeated the St. Louis Cardinals. His second championship came in his final MLB season in 2016 with the Chicago Cubs. This victory was historic, as it ended the Cubs’ 108-year championship drought. In Game 7 of that World Series against the Cleveland Indians, the 39-year-old Ross hit a home run, making him the oldest player to do so in a World Series Game 7. This storybook ending to his playing career, where he was carried off the field by his teammates, cemented his legacy as a beloved figure in Chicago.
After retiring as a player, Ross transitioned to a role as a special assistant to the Cubs and also worked as a baseball analyst for ESPN. In 2017, he further expanded his public profile by competing on season 24 of “Dancing with the Stars,” where he and his partner, Lindsay Arnold, finished as the runners-up. This experience introduced him to a new audience outside of the baseball world.
In October 2019, the Chicago Cubs announced that David Ross would be their new manager, succeeding Joe Maddon. In his first season in 2020, he led the Cubs to a National League Central Division title. He managed the team for four seasons, with a final record of 262 wins and 284 losses. The Cubs dismissed Ross in November 2023.
David Ross Personal Life & Family
David Ross was previously married to Hyla Ross. The couple divorced in 2020. Together, they have three children: two daughters, Landri and Harper, and a son named Cole. Ross has spoken about the importance of family and has been involved in coaching his son’s baseball endeavors. He is a Christian and has been involved in various charitable activities, particularly in the Chicago area with organizations like Cradles to Crayons, which supports underprivileged youth. After his divorce, he was in a relationship with actress Torrey DeVitto, which was made public in 2021, but they have since separated. He resides in Tallahassee, Florida.
Awards and Achievements of David Ross
- Two-time World Series Champion (2013 with the Boston Red Sox, 2016 with the Chicago Cubs)
- Oldest player to hit a home run in a World Series Game 7 (2016)
- Managed the Chicago Cubs to a National League Central Division Title (2020)
David Ross Net Worth and Income
As of 2025, David Ross’s net worth is estimated to be approximately $11 million. His wealth has been accumulated through his 15-year career as a Major League Baseball player, his salary as the manager of the Chicago Cubs, and various endorsements and other ventures. His career earnings as a player are estimated to be over $23 million. His managerial contract with the Cubs also contributed significantly to his net worth. Beyond his baseball-related income, Ross has engaged in other activities such as his appearance on “Dancing with the Stars” and his work as a baseball analyst for ESPN, which have also provided additional income streams.
Legacy and Influence
David Ross’s legacy in baseball is defined by his leadership, perseverance, and the instrumental role he played in two historic World Series championships. Affectionately nicknamed “Grandpa Rossy” by his younger Cubs teammates, he was a revered clubhouse leader whose veteran presence was credited with helping to guide a talented but young team to a championship. His impact went beyond his on-field performance; he was a mentor and a steadying influence. His dramatic home run in Game 7 of the 2016 World Series is an iconic moment in Cubs history and a fitting culmination of his career. His post-playing career, including his stint as a manager and his popular appearance on “Dancing with the Stars,” has further solidified his status as a beloved and respected figure in the sports world. Ross’s book, “Teammate: My Life in Baseball,” co-authored with Don Yaeger, offers further insight into his career and his philosophies on teamwork and leadership.
Interesting Facts about David Ross
- He is one of a select few players to have played in the College World Series with two different universities (Auburn and Florida).
- His first major league home run was off of first baseman Mark Grace, who was put in to pitch in a blowout game.
- In 2015, while playing for the Cubs, he made two pitching appearances in mop-up relief duty. In his second appearance, he also hit a home run.
- He was the first Major League Baseball player to compete on the television show “Dancing with the Stars.”
- Ross caught a no-hitter thrown by Jake Arrieta on April 21, 2016.
- His teammates with the 2016 Cubs affectionately referred to him as “Grandpa Rossy.”
Controversies
David Ross’s career has been largely free of major controversies. His public image is that of a respected and upstanding figure in the baseball community.
Social Media Presence
- Instagram – Not publicly verified
- Twitter – Not publicly verified
- YouTube – Not publicly verified
Final Words about David Ross
David Ross’s journey in professional baseball is a testament to the value of hard work, leadership, and a positive attitude. From a durable and respected catcher to a World Series hero and a manager, he has left an indelible mark on the sport. His ability to connect with teammates, fans, and a broader audience has made him a popular and enduring figure. After being dismissed as the manager of the Chicago Cubs, Ross has expressed a strong desire to manage in the major leagues again. Whether he returns to the dugout or continues to contribute to the sport in other capacities, his legacy as a champion and a consummate teammate is secure.