Braves legend reflects on life, baseball career

Atlanta Braves

Braves legend reflects on life, baseball career

Before his 80th birthday, Braves legend Henry Aaron sits for an interview in the southwest Atlanta home he has been in since 1974 to discuss his life and career in baseball.

Before leaving for D.C., where he will be honored at the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery, Braves legend Henry Aaron sits for an interview in the southwest Atlanta home he has been in since 1974 to discuss his life and career in baseball.

Though far removed from the days he wore No. 44 for the Braves, Hank Aaron says he's stayed in good health. "I feel fortunate. I feel proud of myself. I've tried to stay healthy all my life, tried to do the right things," Aaron said.

Hank Aaron cannot recall any single birthday present from his childhood that left an impression. On his 80th, he will be honored at a Friday night dinner thrown by Commissioner Bud Selig. The following day he and his likeness will be celebrated at the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery - a space no generally reserved for ballplayers but for those who've influenced the nation’s culture.

With a class of former Braves about to enter baseball's Hall of Fame, including Greg Maddux and Tom Glavine, Hank Aaron expresses pride, but concedes nothing. "Hitting against those guys certainly would have presented a problem, but I think that we would have had an understanding," Aaron said with a sly smile.

Braves legend Hank Aaron shows a limited edition Louisville Slugger bat commemorating his 715 homers. Aaron looks back on the build-up to 715 and says, "I had no great moments."

Braves legend Hank Aaron shows he still has his form from his four decades as a slugger.

Braves legend Hank Aaron autographs a baseball on the eve of his 80th birthday for the upcoming celebration at his home.

Forty years removed from the breaking baseball's all-time home run mark, Henry Aaron still wishes he could have savored it more. "The hardest thing I went through was the fact I was so isolated," he says.

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Before leaving for D.C., where he will be honored at the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery, Braves legend Henry Aaron sits for an interview in the southwest Atlanta home he has been in since 1974 to discuss his life and career in baseball.

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