The wait is almost over as the Detroit Tigers are in Cincinnati to take on the Reds on Opening Day.
Just moments ago, the Tigers released their Opening Day starting lineup and it is pretty much what we expected with Niko Goodrum leading things off, followed by Jonathan Schoop, Miguel Cabrera, and C.J. Cron batting No. 2, No. 3, and No. 4 in the lineup.
Cincinnati Reds release starting lineup for Opening Day matchup vs. Detroit Tigers
BONUS CONTENT:
Niko Goodrum, Ron Gardenhire shed light on team’s national anthem stance
Prior to tonight’s exhibition game between the Detroit Tigers and Cincinnati Reds, four Reds players decided to kneel during the playing of the national anthem.
The Tigers, however, weren’t on the field during the playing of the anthem and instead decided to remain behind in the locker room.
SS Niko Goodrum later explained meeting and several players chose to stay in the clubhouse while the national anthem was played. Skipper Ron Gardenhire also offered his thoughts:
Niko Goodrum:
“We had a meeting and decided what we wanted to do. And that’s what we decided on doing. So we just stayed in for the anthem and came out ready to play ball.”
“Some guys are kneeling. Some guys are locking arms. I’m not really sure what every other team is doing. But that’s what we came up with, that we wanted to do. We did it as a unit. We just stayed inside.”
Gardenhire:
“I believe in my guys. I told them, ‘Take a stand, you do what you have to do.’ I have no problem with that whatsoever. And I have no problem with those guys on the other side kneeling. That doesn’t bother me one bit. They’re kneeling for a reason, a good reason.”
“We are united. Our baseball team is united here. Baseball in general is united on what we’re trying to do here and make statements about what’s been happening in this country.”
Niko Goodrum, Ron Gardenhire shed light on team’s national anthem stance
