Cubs' Ross says concussions were consideration in leaving baseball

Last night’s historic, 10-inning World Series Game 7 ended with the first Chicago Cubs championship title since 1908. The team’s 8-7 win over the Cleveland Indians is significant in baseball history for many reasons, but for catcher David Ross it also signaled the end of his career.

 

At 39, he has decided it is time for him to move on, and it’s hard to imagine a better note on which to end. Not only did his team win the World Series, but they won it in a terrific Game 7 during which he hit a home run. He’s reached the top of the mountain.

But that’s not why he’s leaving the sport. He wants to spend more time with his family, for one thing. But he’s also starting to consider what years of balls to the facemask (including one last night), and more than a few resulting concussions, could cost him.

 

Ross has described the symptoms of his past concussions, and their effects on his behaviors, as “miserable” and “a nightmare,” according to the Chicago Sun-Times. He’s also beginning to consider the long-term effects the multiple head injuries could have on him. Given everything he’s experienced and learned, he’s bowing out of the sport.

 

Ross has had a long career with a successful end, and he has much to be proud of. But as he moves forward, he is making his head a priority, and that’s never a bad call.

 

*Scientists have no conclusive evidence as to whether or how the reduction of g-forces during impacts reduces the number or degree of concussions and head injuries. GelDefender products provide supplemental padding as well as cooling and comfort benefits when used with helmets and caps. Participants in activities in which head impacts can occur should always use tested and approved helmets for protection. However, no helmet or supplemental padding can protect the user from all serious head or neck injuries that can result from impacts.

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