Sources: David Ross to #Cubs, two years, $5M.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) December 19, 2014
The Cubs catching situation just got more crowded. After claiming Ryan Lavarnway earlier today, the Cubs signed catcher David Ross to a 2-year, $5 million dollar deal per Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports. Ross follows Jon Lester to the Cubs, as the two were teammates in 2013 and 2014 and played well together.
Ross is 37 years old and figures to be the back-up behind Miguel Montero. This could also mean the end of the Wellington Castillo era in Chicago.
The Cubs are Ross’ seventh career team, and he returns to the NL for the first time since he was with the Atlanta Braves in 2012. Last year Ross slashed .184/.260/.368 with seven homers for the Red Sox. One thing that makes Ross attractive besides his experience is the power he offers off the bench.
Ross and Montero figure to split time at catcher. Ross may end up only starting when Lester does. Ross also assists in Montero’s biggest weaknesses, which is hitting lefties.
This looks like a solid signing for the Cubs, as it will not only make Jon Lester happy, but Ross also had a 1.1 WAR during his two-year stint in Boston, so the 13-year veteran should be able to more good than bad in Chicago.
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