Tommy Birch

tbirch@dmreg.com

The Chicago Cubs have had a week full of World Series celebrations.

Now, the Iowa Cubs are preparing for their own party to commemorate Chicago’s first championship since 1908.

Iowa is planning to present 2016 World Series rings to some players and organization members during a ceremony this season.

“It’s really cool,” said Iowa president and general manager Sam Bernabe. “That’s what you do in this business is you hope for a championship ring of any capacity. Whether it’s a PCL league championship ring or a triple-A championship ring or a Chicago Cubs organization thing. I think it’s probably what everybody chases in our business.”

The Chicago Cubs ended their 108-year drought by beating the Cleveland Indians in seven games last fall. The Iowa Cubs, Chicago's triple-A affiliate, played a part — many of Chicago’s players came through Iowa on their way to the big leagues.

A few who spent time in Chicago last season are back in Iowa and are awaiting their rings. So are some members of the triple-A organization. Chicago handed out rings to current Cubs players on the major-league roster during a special ceremony Wednesday night at Wrigley Field. Neither the Chicago nor Iowa Cubs have said who will receive in Des Moines. There’s no specific protocol on who gets one, either. Each team can make its own decisions.

Bernabe said the rings will be given at a ceremony on a date to still be determined.

“Certainly, our ability and my staff’s ability to take care of the players and the coaching staff, when they’re here, I think all those things play into a great relationship that we’ve been able to foster and coddle,” Bernabe said.

Iowa pitcher Rob Zastryzny recalled talking with Jake Buchanan about the possibility of getting World Series rings while they shagged balls in the outfield with Chicago last season. The two have been fitted for rings and are among those who will be getting some in Des Moines.

“We were both talking about, 'Wouldn’t it be cool to be on that list of people who got a World Series ring?'” Zastryzny said. “Apparently, it’s happening soon. I’m pretty excited about it.”