Chicago Cubs: Three early observations of manager David Ross

Lineup card is fluid

Being new on the job as a manager might make one hesitant in making too many lineup juggling changes, especially right out of the gate to begin the season. Don’t tell that to Ross though, because he has thus far shown a willingness to play different guys while moving them around throughout the batting order.

The new DH ruling has certainly played a vital role in Ross’s thinking when determining the lineup card. He now can play guys like Kyle Schwarber, Victor Caratini, Ian Happ, Nico Hoerner, Jason Kipnis, and Albert Almora more regularly, and in different spots in the starting lineup, thanks to the pitcher not having to bat anymore this season.

So far, Ross has been like a mad scientist when it comes to determining who plays and who sits. He has already demonstrated good qualities of a manager, not being afraid to throw different guys into the lineup even if they are rusty from having not played a lot. This shows the confidence and belief Ross has in his players already, and that no doubt can become infectious among the entire roster.

As a player, Ross was never one to play every single game, let alone start. He was Jon Lester’s personal catcher, but would often cede the starting catcher role to others over the years, becoming a very reliable late-game substitution guy/pinch hitter instead.

Being able to do what’s best for the team, while not worrying about playing time is what ultimately made Ross both the beloved player and manager he is today. It takes a collective effort to win a World Series, with everyone buying into that team-first approach. It’s why the players love playing for Ross, and why his unpredictability in the lineup card resonates more with the players in a positive way than when Maddon managed the team.