San Francisco Giants manager Bob Melvin requires his players to stand for the national anthem before games to show readiness and unity.
This rule, unrelated to politics, contrasts with the previous manager’s approach.
“It’s all about the perception that we’re out there ready to play,” Melvin said. “That’s it. You want your team ready to play, and I want the other team to notice it, too. It’s really as simple as that.”
“Look, we’re a new team here, we got some good players here,” he said.
“It’s more about letting the other side know that we’re ready to play. I want guys out here ready to go. There’s a personality to that.”
“It has nothing to do with whatever happened in the past or whatever, it’s just something I embrace,” he added.
Players have embraced the rule, seeing it as a symbol of teamwork and respect, emphasizing the importance of being present, supportive, and learning from the game.
“I think it sets the example of hey, we’re in this together,” Giants outfielder Austin Slater said. “Whether you’re not playing that day or you’re a starting pitcher who threw yesterday, you’re still out there, on time, ready to be a good teammate.”
“Once the anthem starts, we’re locked in on the game as a unit. There’s an inherent respect level, and not only to the older guys but to your entire team. You’re there to be supportive. The other big part, and this might be the biggest, is you’re staying and watching the game and learning from the game. I think that’s important.”
