MESA, AZ. -- Chicago Cubs catcher David Ross, 38, is calling it a career following the 2016 season with the intent to savor all the big and small moments with his teammates who are one of the favorites to win a championship.
"If it's about me we're in trouble," Ross joked Saturday as the Cubs prepared for their first workout. "I just want to enjoy each day."
He'd love to retire a champion while helping the Cubs break a 107-year drought, but he'll be more focused on the day-to-day, taking in the little things.
"I'm going to try and write down more and take in the moments more instead of letting them pass by," Ross said. "Take in different cities maybe. Just do a little more."
Will the last entry in his journal be about a parade in Chicago, perhaps? The Cubs have as good a chance as any after coming close last season. Ross had a big effect on the Cubs' core of young players because he's a coach in a player's uniform.
"I think everybody is excited -- it's like getting the band back together," Ross said. "I think if we just focus on trying to get better each day, with the talent level we have in here and the group of guys, we're going to be fine."
Ross hit just .176 last season and .184 the year before with Boston, so he knows he's almost done. His self-deprecating style has made him a favorite of fans, reporters and teammates. Asked if he'll have a farewell tour, he responded in kind and laughing.
"Maybe they'll give me a toilet bowl from each stadium."
Ross is expected to catch Jon Lester as he's done the past few years but his real value comes in the dugout and in the clubhouse. He knows the expectations are high in his final season, so the goal is to keep things in perspective.
"When you walk into this clubhouse you feel it," Ross said. "People talk about expectations and stuff like that, it feels completely normal and fun around here."
Title or not come October, the light at the end of the tunnel is getting brighter for the Cubs' gray-bearded catcher.
"It's about that time for me to do whatever it is I want to do for the rest of my life," he stated.