Ex-Cubs Manager David Ross Gets Emotional in Heartbreaking Interview

Former Chicago Cubs manager David Ross got emotional in an exclusive interview after being let go earlier this week.

It's been a few days since David Ross was shockingly fired by the Chicago Cubs, who signed former Milwaukee Brewers manager Craig Counsell to a record-setting deal to replace him.

Ross was understandably devastated by the decision, which came out of left field and was only known ahead of time by a few key members of the organization.

Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer flew down to Florida on Sunday to tell Ross in person that he was being let go after managing Chicago for the last four years.

Now that he's had a few days to process the news, the emotions are still raw for Ross, who clearly sounded heartbroken in an exclusive interview with the Tallahassee Democrat.

David Ross was emotional reflecting on his time managing the #Cubs:

“I think the thing that comes over me is that I am extremely thankful for the opportunity, to be honest.”

“There was a lot of people who worked really hard alongside me. ... I am really thankful for the four… pic.twitter.com/H6wA5QM4GC

— Cubs Zone (@CubsZone) November 9, 2023

Ross gave a lot of insight into his current mindset after the breakup, but most of it was overwhelmingly positive. He didn't come off sounding bitter, but rather as someone who was grateful for the opportunity to manage his former team, even if it didn't end how he wanted.

The 46-year-old former catcher did sound wounded and disappointed, however, and gave some hints that he did not agree with the club's decision.

"I get mad from time to time, but I have a lot to be thankful for," he said.

When asked about his painful conversation with Hoyer, Ross was respectful but also restrained, saying, "If my boss doesn't think I am a good manager, then he should move on. I don't fault him for that...That's his choice. I have my own thoughts and opinions that I will keep to myself."

Kudos to Ross for taking the high road and not ripping his former employers. He certainly has every reason to be upset after helping the Cubs overachieve last year, nearly leading them to the postseason for the second time in his tenure.

Chicago did Ross dirty, and he deserved better. Hopefully the next team he manages isn't so ruthless.