David Ross follows Lester to the Cubs

Sep 20, 2014; Baltimore, MD, USA; Boston Red Sox catcher David Ross (3) during a game against the Baltimore Orioles at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mandatory Credit: Joy R. Absalon-USA TODAY Sports

According to Ken Rosenthal’s sources David Ross is heading to the Chicago Cubs with a two-year deal for $5 million. There the catcher will be reunited with former teammate Jon Lester and general manager Theo Epstein. It seems he will once again don the pads as Lester’s personal catcher just as he was when they were both in Boston. It seems like a smart move for Chicago as it will only ensure they get their money’s worth out of Lester.

David Ross, a native of Georgia who went to high school and college in Florida, came to the Red Sox in 2013 after four seasons with the Atlanta Braves. He had previously sported the red hose for a whopping eight games in 2008, hardly enough for fans to even get to know him. The 37 year-old right hander fell into the mix as Lester’s catcher starting in 2013. He endeared himself to fans, not always an easy feat in Boston. During Spring Training of 2013 Ross and then Red Sox outfielder Jonny Gomes bonded on an alligator “hunt” in the Everglades. During that time he picked up the nickname “Blue Wolf” which became popular enough to become a hashtag on Twitter.

David Ross maintained the reputation for being a nice guy during his interactions with fans while working the bullpen. He was an important part of Boston’s 2013 World Series win because of his work behind the plate. He also sported a delightful beard during that very hairy championship season.

In Chicago, Ross will likely displace Miguel Montero from the lineup on Lester’s start days. This isn’t great news for the Cubs offense, as Ross’s batting average was just .184 last season versus Montero’s .243, but the defense they’ll get from Ross (.983 fielding percentage last season) combined with the effectiveness they’ll get from Lester (his ERA with Ross is 2.02 but without is 2.77) will likely tip the scales in their favor.

Red Sox fans will miss the friendly face of David Ross but wish him the best as he, along side Jon Lester and Theo Epstein, endeavors to bring the Cubs a long sought-after championship.