Cubs catcher Ross taking it all in before retirement

As Cubs fans enjoy the beginning of what could be several seasons of historic success, catcher David Ross is ready for life after baseball.

Ross, a clubhouse favorite on seven teams during a 15-year career, announced late last year that the 2016 season would be his last. He’s trying not to get too far ahead of himself just yet.

“I don’t know if it has set in yet,” Ross said Saturday. “I’m trying to take advantage of every moment and enjoy myself. Take it all in and not take anything for granted.”

Ross has been a key veteran presence the last two seasons as the Cubs’ youth movement found its feet in the majors.

He has hit .205 in 131 games with the Cubs. That’s not too far away from his .229 career average.

But “Grandpa Rossy,” as he’s known, has made a bigger impact off the field.

Manager Joe Maddon said he knew the first day he spoke to Ross that he’d bring value to the young roster.

“Everything was made apparent through one conversation,” Maddon said. “He’s fun. Passionate. Aggressively wanted to win. Great teammate. All of that stuff came through in that first conversation.

“Then, when you meet him and match all that stuff up, it’s all true. That’s why I say he’ll be very good post-career, whatever he wants to be — manager, coach, announcer.”

For now, Ross is focused on spending more time at home with his family. Asked if there’s any chance he’d reconsider retirement, Ross seemed set in his decision.

“It’s time to go home,” he said. “Time to be with family. Time to start a different chapter of my life.”

Rondon throws simulated game

Reliever Hector Rondon (right triceps strain), who was slated for a rehab assignment at Class AAA Iowa on Saturday, instead threw a simulated game at Wrigley Field.

Rondon said he threw all of his pitches in the 22-pitch workout and felt good. He could be activated from the disabled list after the weekend series against the Giants.

“Whether I go there or go here, for me it’s almost kind of the same,” Rondon said. “Today, I feel really good.”

Soler scratched; Bryant at first

Jorge Soler was a late scratch from the lineup with an ingrown toenail, but he pinch-hit for Tommy La Stella in the fifth inning and struck out.

Kris Bryant started his fifth game at first base, spelling Anthony Rizzo. His replacement at third base, La Stella, committed an error in the first inning that led to an unearned run.

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