Cubs fire manager David Ross, 'going forward' with Craig Counsell

(Photo credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports)

Craig Counsell was named manager of the Chicago Cubs on Monday, hiring him away from division rival Milwaukee after firing David Ross to clear the position.

Cubs general manager Jed Hoyer confirmed the moves in an announcement Monday afternoon, hours after reports pointed to Chicago as the "mystery team" involved in the competitive pursuit of the managerial free agent Counsell.