Oakland A's catcher Bruce Maxwell kneels during national anthem before game against Texas Rangers

OAKLAND, California -- Before the A's played the Rangers, Oakland catcher Bruce Maxwell knelt during the national anthem.

As Maxwell took a knee, Mark Canha put his hand on the rookie catcher's shoulder and afterward Maxwell and Canha exchanged a hug. Maxwell was clearly emotional in the moment.

After Maxwell took a knee the A's displayed a message at the Coliseum, saying "The Oakland A's pride ourselves on being inclusive. We respect and support all of our players' constitutional rights and freedom of expression."

Maxwell was the first Major League Baseball player to kneel during the anthem.

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