In my first years following baseball, catcher Randy Hundley was a constant presence behind the plate for the Chicago Cubs. Last week, Hundley was the center of attention at a book celebration for his autobiography, Ironman.

In his first four seasons with the Cubs, “The Rebel” established himself as a workhouse, averaging an incredible 153 games a season. Fittingly, the event was held at Donkey Inn, named after a beast of burden.

As a teenager, co-author John St. Augustine originally met Hundley while seeking his autograph. Years later, the two became friends when St. Augustine attended Hundley’s fantasy baseball camp, where the seeds were planted for the book.

Upon arrival at Donkey Inn, I was greeted by St. Augustine, who introduced me to Hundley. We talked a bit, and I tried on his 2016 Cubs World Series ring before I moved along, allowing others to have time with him.

After food was served, St. Augustine and Hundley spoke to the crowd. At 82, Hundley still happily tells tales of his career.

Of course, Ironman contains many more tales. It also has amazing pictures. When I first received my copy, I spent a lot of time just looking at the pictures of the players of my youth.

I spent the rest of the event sharing stories and laughs with fellow Cubs fans. As this baseball season ends with neither Chicago team in the playoffs, it was fun to have something to celebrate about baseball.

— John Wroblewski, online writer