NEW YORK -- The Yankees remembered the victims of Monday's terror attack in Manchester, England, standing in solidarity and unity with the people of the United Kingdom of Great Britain by playing "God Save the Queen" prior to Tuesday night's 6-2 loss to the Royals at Yankee Stadium.
Public address announcer Paul Olden called for a moment of silence to honor the victims of Monday's "heinous and cowardly" attack, which claimed the lives of 22 people and injured dozens when a suicide bomber detonated a device at Manchester Arena following a performance by pop singer Ariana Grande.
"It's tragic to think about what happened, but the reality is that's the world that we live in today," Yankees third baseman Chase Headley said. "That's reality. Certainly you're aware of group gatherings being a potential target, so it's unfortunate that you have to deal with that type of stuff."
In response to the attack, New York City Police Commissioner James O'Neill said that the NYPD has tightened security at high-profile locations, including increased patrols in the vicinity of Yankee Stadium.
Yankees manager Joe Girardi said before Tuesday's game that he believes safety is a top priority.
"I think you always think about it," Girardi said. "I think our people have done a really good job of doing everything they can to protect our fans and protect the players and everyone involved that's here in this building -- you, me.
"But you're always worried. That's the world we live in. So you put your faith in the people that are taking care of us and you trust them."
As "God Save the Queen" played, the scoreboard displayed the Union Jack flag and read, "Our Thoughts and Prayers to the Victims in Manchester." A rendition of The Star-Spangled Banner immediately followed.
"I thought it was a nice gesture," said Yankees outfielder Jacoby Ellsbury, who stood alongside teammates Aaron Hicks and Aaron Judge during the tribute. "Obviously, it's very sad what happened. You're just listening to the sound of their anthem and you think about your family."