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Levine: Cubs' David Ross Savors Last Game At Wrigley Field

By Bruce Levine--

CHICAGO (CBS) -- By all practical reasoning, the backup catcher on a team playing his last game at home wouldn't be a headlining story. That's true unless your name is David Ross, of course.

In just two years with the Cubs, Ross has had more impact on the franchise than many star players do over a long career in one town.

On Sunday night, it was Ross hitting a sacrifice fly in the fourth inning in Game 5 of the World Series that helped the Cubs to a 3-2 victory against the Indians. Throughout the night, the 39-year-old Ross took some time to smell the roses while also keeping his focus on catching left-hander Jon Lester, who earned the win with six strong innings.

It was Ross' last game at Wrigley Field, as he plans to retire at season's end.

"I did take it in at times," Ross said. "I wasn't able to do it much, because I didn't want to get emotional. I needed to keep my head in the game. It wasn't really the time to think about me and my career. I just tried to enjoy it."

For a career .229 hitter like Ross to have such an effect on teammates and fans alike is rare. He's praised as a great teammate, great person and clutch performer, showing that daily with his actions.

"The fans here were fabulous to me, " Ross said. "Tonight, they were a difference-maker for me. Just warming up, Jon and the entire energy in the stadium was fantastic. Being able to feel that energy on the field was special for me."

After 15 seasons, Ross is going home to be a full-time husband and father. Teammates and coaches have tried to talk him out of it, knowing what he's meant in setting the tone and example in the clubhouse since signing a two-year, $5-million deal in December 2014.

"We enjoyed this win," Ross said after a Game 5 victory that saw the Cubs cut their series deficit to 3-2. "It's nice to give out great fans something to cheer for. We have some business to take care of in Cleveland."

Ross' impact on the Cubs will be much more than a footnote when people start looking back at the new franchise history.

"We have had fun and taken care of business here," Ross said. "I will miss the guys and this great fan base. Let's finish it off right."

Bruce Levine covers the Cubs and White Sox for 670 The Score and CBSChicago.com. Follow him on Twitter @MLBBruceLevine.

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