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David Ross is headed back to the broadcast booth. After spending the past several seasons in the dugout, most recently as manager of the Chicago Cubs, Ross confirmed he will return to ESPN this year as an MLB game analyst. Ross rejoins a network he says has long felt like home and one that helped shape the second chapter of his baseball life.
Speaking about the opportunity during the network’s broadcast of Team USA taking on San Francisco, Ross made it clear that the move excites him not only professionally but personally, especially because of the relationships that await him when he steps back into Bristol’s orbit.
“I’m so fired up,” Ross said. “Especially being able to work with you [Jon Sciambi]. Long relationship. You’re like the Tom Brady, and maybe I’m like Gronk. That’s how it works.”
The former World Series champion catcher built a reputation as one of baseball’s most respected clubhouse leaders. He leaned into the camaraderie that defined his previous stint with the network. More importantly, Ross stressed how meaningful ESPN remains to him. He said that as he transitions back into media after managing on Chicago’s North Side.
“I’m so pumped to be back,” he said. “The ESPN family has been special to me, and I can’t wait to watch some more baseball, be more involved. Especially an environment like this. It’s special.”
Ross previously worked as a studio analyst for ESPN following his retirement as a player in 2016, quickly emerging as a natural on television thanks to his blend of insight, humor and authenticity, qualities that later helped him land the Cubs’ managerial job despite limited coaching experience. He currently is serving as the bullpen coach for Team USA as they participate in the World Baseball Classic beginning next week.
With his return to broadcasting, Ross reenters an evolving baseball media landscape. Networks continue competing for premium game inventory. Audiences also demand sharper analysis from voices who recently lived the game at its highest levels.
For ESPN, adding Ross back into the fold strengthens a roster that has leaned heavily on former players capable of translating modern clubhouse culture and strategy to viewers who crave deeper context beyond surface-level commentary.
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