In a rapidly escalating controversy shaking the foundations of Major League Baseball, Boston Red Sox superstar Rafael Devers has reportedly received a formal warning from the league that he could be banned for the entire 2025 season due to his public support for kneeling during the national anthem.

Sources close to the situation say that Devers, a longtime fan favorite and clubhouse leader, has come under scrutiny from MLB officials after vocally defending several teammates who chose to kneel during pre-game flag ceremonies in protest of racial injustice and systemic inequality. While Devers himself has not knelt during the anthem, he has made no secret of his solidarity with those who have—including outspoken statements during post-game interviews and a widely shared Instagram post reading, “Respect means listening, not silencing.”

According to an internal memo circulating among league executives, Devers’ continued comments are being reviewed under MLB’s “conduct detrimental to the game” policy. The memo reportedly includes language indicating that if Devers persists in “undermining the unity of ceremonial league traditions,” he will face a suspension “not less than the duration of the 2025 season.”

The news has sent shockwaves through the baseball world.

“This is outrageous,” said a Red Sox team source who asked to remain anonymous. “He’s being punished not for any actions on the field, but for expressing support for his teammates. It’s hard to see how that’s compatible with any idea of free expression.”

Fans have taken to social media in droves, with hashtags like #StandWithDevers and #LetThemKneel trending nationally within hours. Civil rights advocates and former MLB players have also weighed in. Hall of Famer Ken Griffey Jr. posted, “When athletes use their voice, history listens. MLB should too.”

However, others argue that players have a duty to respect traditional league ceremonies and keep politics separate from the game. “Fans come to watch baseball, not activism,” said one former executive now working as a league consultant. “The league has the right to protect its brand.”

The Red Sox organization has yet to comment publicly, though reports indicate that Devers met privately with team president Sam Kennedy and manager Alex Cora earlier this week. According to sources familiar with that meeting, Devers made clear that he would not back down from supporting his teammates.

With Rafael Devers entering the prime of his career and coming off a stellar 2024 season, a year-long suspension would not only be a devastating blow to the Red Sox lineup but would also mark one of the most severe disciplinary actions in MLB history tied to a player’s personal views.

As the league braces for backlash, all eyes are now on MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred, who is expected to address the situation at an upcoming press conference. The outcome of this controversy could redefine the relationship between professional athletes, personal expression, and the role of protest in American sports.

For now, Rafael Devers remains defiant. In his latest statement to reporters, he said simply:
“Supporting my teammates isn’t a crime. It’s called loyalty.”