Cubs Expected to Add Mike Napoli to David Ross' Coaching Staff
The Chicago Cubs will be coming into the 2020 season with some major changes.
After firing manager Jon Maddon, Theo Epstein and the front office decided to fill that vacant position with former catcher David Ross. Well, now the rest of Ross' new coaching staff is beginning to shape up, as it was reported that Mike Napoli will join the Cubs as a quality assurance coach.
Mike Napoli, who was teammates with David Ross on the 2013 Red Sox, is expected to get a role on Ross’ staff as a quality assurance coach.
— Sahadev Sharma (@sahadevsharma) November 14, 2019
Napoli officially retired from baseball in late 2018. He played for the Angels, Rangers (three times), Red Sox and Indians throughout his career, finishing out his playing days in Texas in 2017.
Ross and Napoli were teammates on Boston's World Series-winning team in 2013. This will be Napoli's first foray into coaching after spending 12 seasons in the big leagues, splitting time as both a catcher and first baseman.
Mike Napoli is joining the Cubs coaching staff
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) November 14, 2019
The Cubs disappointed last season despite boasting a talented roster. The team's failure to reach the playoffs marked the end of Maddon's tenure in the Windy City, but they'll likely be patient with Ross during his debut season.
Ross still has some vacancies left on his staff to fill, but the addition of Napoli is a great start.