One of the most beautiful phrases I’ve ever heard is, “Pitchers and catchers reporting…” Baseball season is a beautiful part of living in America, one that I’ve relished for as long as I can remember.

So it seemed fitting that I should read a baseball book around this time of year. A few years ago Jonathan Eig wrote Luckiest Man: The Life and Death of Lou Gehrig. Like most baseball fans I knew a few things about Gehrig, but I had never delved into his life. I’m glad I did.

Until he was diagnosed with ALS, Lou Gehrig lived a fairy tale life. He grew up in a loving (if poor) home in New York. When he became a professional baseball player he was surrounded by some of the greatest legends in baseball. He won all the awards: batting titles, on base percentages, home runs, runs scored, and World Series rings. He still holds the record for most career grand slams, and the Hall of Fame waived their normal rules so they could vote him into the Hall immediately upon his retirement. Gehrig batted fourth in the greatest lineup in baseball history, the legendary 1927 Yankees known as Murderers Row. As many have pointed out, he was the bridge between the Babe Ruth and Joe DiMaggio during the heyday of the New York Yankees. Throughout it all he played in 2130 consecutive games.

And then the Iron Horse was stricken with ALS. Handling it with grace and determination, Gehrig modeled the best of the human spirit in his battle for life. But ALS eventually won the battle.

A sad story? Well, yes, it’s hard not to be sad when a man loses his life in his prime. But the book tells a story of triumph and celebration. Lou Gehrig’s regal bearing is so admirable that one can’t help but be impressed. He is a humble and classy hero, which is always endearing fans. The adulation he received upon retirement and at his memorial is legendary. His simple love for the game, and simple tastes in life, make him a hero for the common man. It’s impossible not to be impressed with the man.

If you love baseball, you’ll love the book. Even if you don’t, you’ll learn to love the man.