The pressure is on for Chicago Cubs rookie manager David Ross as his in-game decisions are coming under scrutiny, especially after a lackluster start to the season. With the Cubs making major investments in their roster over the offseason, external expectations for a winning season are high. However, after losing four of their first six games, Ross is feeling the heat from fans and critics alike.
Ross treated every game with the same mentality even during losing seasons
Ross has always been a competitive individual, something he showcased throughout his playing career. He had a reputation for playing with maximum effort each game, regardless of the circumstances. The same mentality has been on display so far this season, with Ross treating each game as an opportunity to win.
Ross faces scrutiny over in-game decisions
Despite his best efforts, Ross’s in-game decisions have come under scrutiny. In particular, social media was quick to criticize his decision-making during Monday’s 7-6 loss to the Reds. Some fans questioned his decision to pull starter Kyle Hendricks in favor of Jake Arrieta, who gave up a run-scoring single. Others were frustrated by his choice of play when Willson Contreras hit into a double play that ended a potential rally.
Ross reflects on and learns from mistakes
After each game, Ross takes time to review replays and consults with his coaching staff and front office for feedback on his decisions. He believes in evaluating the soundness of his decision-making process rather than focusing on outcomes alone. It’s an approach that has earned him respect throughout baseball, even in these early days of his managerial career.
High expectations put pressure on Ross’s decisions
The Cubs have made significant investments in their roster this season, bringing in new players like Cody Bellinger and Eric Hosmer. This has led to external expectations of a winning season, ramping up the pressure on Ross’s decisions. While he recognizes this, he remains focused on his process and strives for consistency in his decision-making.
Ross balances insight with strategic secrets
As a rookie manager, Ross is still adjusting to the added scrutiny that comes with the job. While he aims to offer insights into his thought process, he also knows that giving away too much information could have strategic consequences.
Cubs’ performance at the start of the season
The Cubs have gotten off to an uneven start to the season. While netting wins over the Pirates and Brewers, they have struggled against the Reds and have already experienced several injuries within their roster. Shortstop Dansby Swanson has been dominating play, leading the league in batting average, but minor league pitcher Ben Leeper has undergone Tommy John surgery, and Seiya Suzuki is still rehabbing from a strained oblique.
Ross’s managerial mistakes in second game of the season
While it’s still early days in the season, there are concerns over some managerial mistakes made by Ross early on. In particular, his decision to leave reliever Javier Assad in the game despite having a fully rested bullpen resulted in three runs being scored by the Brewers. He also pulled Trey Mancini from right field in favor of a defensive upgrade with Miles Mastrobuoni, which led to two runners scoring after a ball was misplayed.
The Cubs are fully committed to contending this season, and Ross’s decisions will be under continued scrutiny as they fight for a playoff spot later in the year. However, if he continues to review and learn from his decisions while balancing insights with strategic secrets, there is no doubt that he can lead this team towards success.
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