Tyler Saladino of the White Sox even stands for national anthem rehearsal
The national anthem has become one of the most talked about aspects of sports after former 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick started kneeling in protest as it was played before NFL games. That singular protest has become a trend, specifically in the NFL, where dozens of players are now following suit.
None of that appeared to be on the mind of Chicago White Sox infielder Tyler Saladino though as he stood for Haley Reinhart’s rendition at Guaranteed Rate Field before Friday’s game against the Giants.
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Stood twice, we should say.
Before Reinhart knocked it out of the park in front of the crowd, she rehearsed her performance with only players, coaches and stadium employees within earshot, and even then Saladino removed his cap and stood at attention.
Classy move by White Sox's Tyler Saladino to stand at attention while anthem singer practices prior to game. pic.twitter.com/i2lCqkOdGO
— Chris Kuc (@ChrisKuc) September 8, 2017
It’s not clear if this is something Saladino typically does, but it’s definitely cool to see.
Kaepernick’s actions have led to heated debates over whether or not that’s the proper way to stand up for what he or anyone else believes in, regardless of how strong those feelings are. It’s even led people to question whether or not the playing of the national anthem has run its course prior to sporting events.
Regardless of where you stand on either debate, there’s no denying Saladino has set a pretty good example here in terms of respecting the anthem and respecting the performer.
BLS H/N: Sporting News
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Mark Townsend is a writer for Big League Stew on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at bigleaguestew@yahoo.com or follow him on Twitter!
