Baseball is finally back in business after the lockout was finally ended. Now that spring training is underway, the Chicago Cubs are looking to usher in a new era on a high note.

The Cubs are leaning on their current manager and former player to lead the squad. They announced that they have extended David Ross through at least the 2024 season.

Ross' contract was originally set to expire after this season but he is now staying with Chicago for a few more years. He placed third in NL Manager of the Year voting in 2020.

Ross had a 15-year career as a major-league catcher with seven teams. He played his last two seasons with the Cubs, cementing his status as a team legend with a home run in Game 7 of the 2016 World Series. The solo blast made him the oldest player in Major League history to go yard in Game 7 of the World Series and helped Chicago take home the long-coveted title.

With the Cubs shifting into rebuild mode after dismantling their World Series-winning core, Ross is tasked with helping the team navigate an uncertain future. They could be back to competing if they land star shortstop Carlos Correa in free agency. With star catcher Willson Contreras, 2021 rookie sensation/third baseman Patrick Wisdom and new starting pitcher Marcus Stroman, Chicago does have some solid pieces to surround Correa.

Whatever direction the Cubs go, Ross' leadership will be greatly beneficial.