David Ross Bio 2026: Age, Cubs Career, Family, Net Worth & Recent Work

David Ross is a celebrated American former Major League Baseball catcher, television analyst, author, and former manager of the Chicago Cubs. Widely known across baseball culture by his affectionate moniker “Grandpa Rossy,” he gained national reverence as the inspirational veteran leader of the 2016 World Series champion Chicago Cubs. Over a gritty 15-season playing career spanning seven different franchises, Ross earned two World Series rings before transitioning seamlessly into managerial leadership and top-tier broadcasting.

Beyond his on-field clutch performances—highlighted by his historic home run in Game 7 of the 2016 World Series—Ross captured the hearts of mainstream American entertainment fans by finishing as the runner-up on Season 24 of ABC’s Dancing with the Stars. Today, his voice remains an authoritative, energetic pillar in national sports media.

Similar trending baseball personalities and contemporaries include Craig Counsell, Jon Lester, Anthony Rizzo, Alex Cora, and Mark DeRosa.

Quick Facts

Early Life & Education

David Wade Ross was born on March 19, 1977, in Bainbridge, Georgia, into an athletic, close-knit family. His father, David Ross Sr., played men’s softball, while his mother, Jackie, was an avid basketball and softball athlete. Growing up in nearby Tallahassee, Florida, Ross was immersed in competitive sports from his earliest youth league days, developing a natural talent for handling pitchers and commanding the field behind the plate.

Ross attended Florida High School in Tallahassee, where he excelled on the diamond and led his team to deep postseason runs. Following graduation, he earned an athletic scholarship to Auburn University. He played collegiate baseball for the Auburn Tigers from 1996 through 1997, helping guide the Tigers to the 1997 College World Series under legendary coach Hal Baird.

Seeking a fresh tactical environment, Ross transferred to the University of Florida for the 1998 season. Playing for the Florida Gators under coach Andy Lopez, Ross put together an extraordinary offensive and defensive campaign. He batted .332 with 19 home runs and 69 RBIs, fueling Florida’s historic run back to the 1998 College World Series in Omaha. Ross remains one of the few elite ballplayers to have reached the College World Series with two separate programs.

Career Journey

Minor League Development and MLB Debut (1998–2005)

Following his stellar 1998 season with the Gators, the Los Angeles Dodgers selected David Ross in the 7th round (216th overall) of the 1998 MLB Draft. He spent four seasons navigating the rigorous minor league ladder, refining his game-calling mechanics, throwing accuracy, and power hitting with affiliates like the Vero Beach Dodgers, San Antonio Missions, and Albuquerque Dukes.

On June 29, 2002, Ross made his Major League debut with the Los Angeles Dodgers. He hit his first career home run on September 2, 2002, off Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Mark Grace. Serving primarily as a reliable backup to Paul Lo Duca, Ross established himself as a trusted defensive backstop with occasional pop. In 2005, Ross spent brief stints with the Pittsburgh Pirates and San Diego Padres before finding greater stability in the National League Central.

Cincinnati Reds and Atlanta Braves (2006–2012)

Ross enjoyed his most productive power-hitting offensive season in 2006 with the Cincinnati Reds. Splitting catching duties with Javier Valentín and Jason LaRue, Ross played in 90 games, launching a career-high 21 home runs and driving in 52 runs in just 247 at-bats, compiling a remarkable .579 slugging percentage.

In 2009, Ross signed with the Atlanta Braves, beginning a four-year tenure where he matured into one of the sport’s finest backup catchers and mentors. In Atlanta, he served as personal catcher to several elite starters, notably Kris Medlen and Tim Hudson, while offering steady leadership alongside All-Star Brian McCann. During his Atlanta years, Ross posted consistent on-base metrics and threw out over 35% of potential base stealers.

Boston Red Sox & First World Series Title (2013–2014)

Ross joined the Boston Red Sox ahead of the 2013 season on a two-year contract, pairing with former Atlanta teammate Jarrod Saltalamacchia. He instantly formed an unbreakable bond with ace left-hander Jon Lester. Ross became Lester’s dedicated personal catcher, calling masterful games throughout the regular season and the 2013 postseason.

In the 2013 World Series against the St. Louis Cardinals, Ross started multiple games, providing steady leadership and delivering a crucial go-ahead RBI double in Game 5 off Adam Wainwright. Boston won the series in six games, earning Ross his first World Series championship ring.

Chicago Cubs: The Grandpa Rossy Era & 2016 World Series (2015–2016)

When Jon Lester signed a blockbuster free-agent deal with the Chicago Cubs in December 2014, Ross followed his longtime battery mate to the North Side of Chicago on a two-year contract. In Chicago, Ross took on a defining cultural role within an exceptionally young locker room that included Kris Bryant, Javier Báez, and Kyle Schwarber. Teammates lovingly nicknamed the graying veteran “Grandpa Rossy,” creating an Instagram account to chronicle his antics.

Ross announced that the 2016 campaign would be his final season in Major League Baseball. What followed was a storybook fairytale:

• On April 21, 2016, Ross caught Jake Arrieta’s second career no-hitter against the Cincinnati Reds.
• On May 27, 2016, he crushed his 100th career home run off Philadelphia Phillies ace Jerad Eickhoff.
• In Game 7 of the 2016 World Series against the Cleveland Indians, Ross entered the game in the fifth inning. In the top of the sixth inning, at age 39, Ross hit a monumental solo home run off dominant relief pitcher Andrew Miller.

The Cubs went on to win Game 7 in 10 innings, clinching their first World Series title in 108 years. Ross was carried off the field on his teammates’ shoulders, ending his playing career at the absolute summit of professional baseball.

Managerial Career: Leading the Chicago Cubs (2020–2023)

After working in the Cubs front office as a special assistant and serving as an ESPN color analyst from 2017 to 2019, Ross was officially hired as the 55th manager of the Chicago Cubs in October 2019, succeeding Joe Maddon.

In his rookie managerial season during the pandemic-shortened 2020 campaign, Ross guided Chicago to a 34-26 record and the NL Central division championship, finishing third in National League Manager of the Year voting. Over the next three seasons, Ross shepherded the club through a massive roster transition following the trades of core franchise stars. In 2023, Ross led the Cubs to an 83-79 record, keeping the team in playoff contention until the final weekend. Following the season, Chicago made a surprising front-office pivot, replacing Ross with Craig Counsell.

Recent Activity & 2026 Endeavors

Following his managerial tenure, Ross made an immediate return to national prominence. Throughout 2024 and 2025, Ross re-established himself as a top-tier lead studio analyst and color commentator for ESPN’s baseball coverage, appearing regularly on Baseball Tonight and Sunday Night Baseball telecasts.

In 2026, David Ross continues his prominent presence across sports media, keynoting leadership seminars and working closely with youth sports foundations across Florida and Illinois. He remains an active participant in MLB special events, alumni coaching clinics, and major broadcast productions, while continuing to evaluate future on-field managerial opportunities.

Career Stats & MLB Achievements

Personal Life

David Ross married his high school sweetheart, Hasty High, in the fall of 2005. Together, they have three children: daughters Landri and Harper, and son Cole. During his playing career, the family maintained their primary residence in Tallahassee, Florida. In early 2020, Ross and Hasty High finalized their divorce after nearly fifteen years of marriage, maintaining an amicable co-parenting partnership centered around their children’s growth and education.

In spring 2021, Ross began dating actress Torrey DeVitto, known for her roles on Chicago Med, The Vampire Diaries, and One Tree Hill. The couple made frequent public appearances and shared glimpses of their relationship across social media before mutually parting ways in early 2023.

Outside of baseball, Ross is an avid outdoorsman who loves bass fishing, hunting, golfing, and staying active with family fitness routines. He is deeply involved with charitable causes, including the Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation, the Chicago Cubs Charities, and several Tallahassee community youth athletics programs.

Awards & Achievements

• 2x World Series Champion: 2013 (Boston Red Sox), 2016 (Chicago Cubs)
• Oldest Player to Hit a Home Run in Game 7 of the World Series: Age 39 (2016)
• NL Central Division Champion as Manager: 2020 (Chicago Cubs)
• College World Series Participant: 1997 (Auburn Tigers), 1998 (Florida Gators)
• Dancing with the Stars Runner-Up: Season 24 (paired with pro Lindsay Arnold)
• New York Times Best-Selling Author: Teammate: My Journey in Baseball and a World Series for the Ages (2017)

Physical Statistics

Quotes

“Being a good teammate isn’t about being the best player on the field; it’s about making sure the player next to you has everything they need to be at their best.”

— David Ross, Teammate

“To go out on top, holding that trophy with guys who poured every ounce of their heart into every single pitch—that is something nobody can ever take away from us.”

— David Ross on the 2016 World Series victory

“The pressure is a privilege in baseball. When people expect great things from you, it means you’ve earned their respect.”

— David Ross

Controversies & Notable Debates

While known throughout his career for impeccable sportsmanship and clubhouse character, Ross has found himself at the center of a few notable baseball discussions:

• The 2023 Managerial Dismissal: In November 2023, the Chicago Cubs abruptly dismissed Ross to sign Milwaukee Brewers manager Craig Counsell to a record-setting managerial contract. While Cubs president Jed Hoyer praised Ross’s character and leadership, the sudden nature of the move sparked extensive sports radio debate across Chicago regarding loyalty versus business pragmatism.
• Pitch Framing and Strategy Debates: During his managerial tenure, Ross faced periodic scrutiny from analytical baseball communities over bullpen management and lineup construction, though peers consistently lauded his game preparation and player relationships.

Favorites & Lifestyle

• Favorite Hobby: Deep-sea and freshwater bass fishing
• Favorite Music Genre: 90s Country and Southern Rock
• Favorite Food: Barbecue ribs and classic Southern cooking
• Favorite Vacation Destination: Florida Gulf Coast
• Favorite Ballpark to Play In: Wrigley Field (Chicago) and Fenway Park (Boston)

David Ross Net Worth and Salary in 2026

As of August 2026, David Ross’s estimated net worth stands comfortably between $14 million and $16 million. Over his 15-year MLB playing career, Ross accumulated more than $24 million in gross player salaries.

During his four-season run managing the Chicago Cubs (2020–2023), Ross earned approximately $1.5 million to $2.5 million annually under his managerial contracts. His overall net worth has been bolstered by television broadcasting contracts with ESPN, book royalties from his best-selling memoir Teammate, public speaking fees, and brand endorsements.

Interesting Facts

• History Maker in College: Ross is one of only a handful of collegiate players in NCAA history to play in the College World Series for two different universities (Auburn in 1997 and Florida in 1998).
• Dancing Success: Ross was the first active or recently retired Major League Baseball player to compete on Dancing with the Stars, finishing in second place behind Olympic gymnast Simone Biles and winner Rashad Jennings.
• Grandpa Rossy Instagram: The popular Instagram account “GrandpaRossy” was secretly created and run by Cubs superstars Anthony Rizzo and Kris Bryant to document Ross’s final year in the majors.
• Pitching Appearance: On May 9, 2015, Ross pitched a perfect 1-2-3 eighth inning for the Cubs against the Milwaukee Brewers, becoming a fan-favorite utility moment.
• Iconic Final At-Bat: His final official plate appearance in Major League Baseball was his Game 7 home run in the 2016 World Series.

Did You Know Already?

• David Ross caught two career no-hitters: one for the Atlanta Braves (thrown by Derek Lowe in an unofficial game) and Jake Arrieta’s second no-hitter in 2016 against Cincinnati.
• Before becoming an everyday MLB hero, Ross was drafted twice: first by the Dodgers out of high school (which he declined) and again by the Dodgers after college in 1998.
• He made a cameo appearance in the hit music video for country singer Brett Eldredge’s single “Wanna Be That Song.”

Social Media Links

• Instagram: @grandparossy_3
• Twitter / X: @D_Ross3
• Official MLB Profile: MLB.com Player Page

Frequently Asked Questions

What teams did David Ross play for during his MLB career?

David Ross played for seven MLB franchises during his 15-year career: 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 Chicago Cubs (2015–2016).

How many World Series rings does David Ross have?

Ross won two World Series championships as a player: the first with the Boston Red Sox in 2013, and the second with the Chicago Cubs in 2016.

Why was David Ross called “Grandpa Rossy”?

The nickname was coined by younger Chicago Cubs players Kris Bryant and Anthony Rizzo during the 2015 and 2016 seasons to tease Ross about his veteran age, gray hair, and fatherly leadership in the clubhouse.

What is David Ross doing now in 2026?

Looking through 2026, David Ross is working as a major baseball television analyst and studio commentator, engaging in leadership speaking, and contributing to youth athletic programs nationwide.

Who are David Ross’s children?

David Ross has three children with his former wife, Hasty High: daughters Landri and Harper, and son Cole.

Final Thoughts

David Ross remains one of the most beloved figures in modern baseball history. From unheralded backup catcher to two-time World Series champion, charismatic Cubs skipper, and engaging media personality, his story is a testament to perseverance, leadership, and authentic camaraderie. If you enjoyed this biography of Grandpa Rossy, be sure to share it with fellow baseball fans and leave your favorite David Ross memories in the comments below!

Key Sources Used: Official Major League Baseball biographical archives, Baseball-Reference historical records, Auburn and Florida Gators athletic archives, verified national broadcast interviews (ESPN/MLB Network), and David Ross’s published memoir Teammate.