Former MLB outfielder Jim Edmonds, an eight-time Gold Glove winner and widely recognized defensive center fielder, says he would not have allowed teammates to protest during the National Anthem. In comments reported by multiple outlets, Edmonds describes a “stand up and salute” approach and says he would have confronted or taken action against players who were disrespecting the anthem while he was a team leader. Edmonds frames the remarks around what he personally would have done during his playing career, including his role as a captain, rather than describing any specific incident he witnessed. The reports also note his overall MLB tenure, including that he spent parts of 17 seasons in the major leagues. While the outlets differ slightly in wording, they converge on Edmonds’ position that he opposed anthem protests and believed teammates should participate respectfully. The statements reflect Edmonds’ views on player conduct during the anthem rather than an announcement of league action or changes to team policies.