The San Francisco Giants begin a new era this season with manager Bob Melvin, so fans will notice some changes.
One change will be visible before games even start: Melvin wants all his players, coaches and staff standing on the field for the national anthem.
It’s not for the political reasons many fans might think.
“It’s all about the perception that we’re out there ready to play,” Melvin said (via The Athletic). “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.”
Still, it’s an ironic move, given former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick started the trend of national anthem protests in the city in 2016. Former Giants manager Gabe Kapler did not stand for the anthem before games in 2022.
“It shows that we’re ready to play,” Giants infielder Wilmer Flores told The Athletic. “That’s the message we want to send to the other team. Even if you’re not playing, you’re engaged. You’re there to watch the game. It’s definitely something he wanted us to do. We’re here to play, right? I think it’s good. It doesn’t mean you’ll have a good result this season. But it’s a good way to start.”
Fans checking in on X/Twitter generally applauded the change, even if Melvin claims it was not done for political reasons.
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — There’s a new sheriff in town in San Francisco, and his name is manager Bob Melvin, who is requiring every person in the Giants dugout to stand on the field for the national anthem. 🫡 USA 🇺🇸 USA 🇺🇸 USA 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/xGJRlHbBuu
— Noble Road (@noble_road) March 3, 2024
Not going to be popular with the fan base. Big change from Kapler. https://t.co/xC9KJL1r0c
— Millennial Burnout (@hpriz95) March 3, 2024
Good for him. The national anthem should never be the battleground for anything political, or social. There are plenty of other platforms to address those positions. https://t.co/GnXz5SmzWG
— Vincent Alfred D'Adamo (@napagoombah) March 3, 2024
Massive respect to this guy.
Should be implemented to all American based teams in the major sports leagues in North America.
— Sam (@SRTBoston617) March 3, 2024
National Anthem is something very much honorable and everyone should feel the proud while singing NA.
— Paul Nazir (@paulnazir321) March 3, 2024
