Ross merits consideration for Game 6 start

CLEVELAND — Thus far in the World Series, Cubs catcher David Ross has only started when his good friend Jon Lester was slated to pitch.

Manager Joe Maddon said on Monday night during a conference call that he expects to maintain that approach. So barring a hurricane or similar surprise, Willson Contreras will catch Jake Arrieta in Game 6 on Tuesday night and Kyle Hendricks in a possible winner-take-all Game 7 on Wednesday night at Progressive Field.

• World Series Game 6: Tuesday, 7:30 ET air time | 8 ET game time on FOX

The Indians lead the best-of-seven series, 3-2, and are in a strong position to clinch their first World Series victory since 1948. The Cubs haven’t won since 1908.

Game Date Time (air time/game time) Matchup TV Gm 1 Oct. 25   CLE 6, CHC 0 Gm 2 Oct. 26   CHC 5, CLE 1 Gm 3 Oct. 28   CLE 1, CHC 0 Gm 4 Oct. 29   CLE 7, CHC 2 Gm 5 Oct. 30   CHC 3, CLE 2 Gm 6 Nov. 1 7:30 p.m./8 p.m. CHC @ CLE FOX *Gm 7 Nov. 2 7:30 p.m./8 p.m. CHC @ CLE FOX * If necessary | All times listed ET • World Series coverageShop for postseason gear: Cubs | Indians

Maddon is one of baseball’s best managers, but in this case, perhaps he should reconsider. Ross is the spiritual leader of the team, and he could provide a lift if given the chance to start behind the plate rather than pinch-hit in the final games of his career.

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“You never know,” Maddon said when asked how he might use Ross. “You can see how the games play out. There’s also Jonny Lester in the bullpen. And you’d have to make a decision on how you …

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