In a stunning and disturbing revelation, New York Yankees superstar Aaron Judge disclosed that he received a threatening text message from a Baltimore Orioles player just hours before a scheduled game—an incident so unsettling that it led to Judge being scratched from the lineup.

Speaking with reporters after the Yankees’ unexpected lineup change, Judge appeared visibly shaken as he addressed the reason for his sudden absence.

“This wasn’t something I could just brush off,” Judge said. “It wasn’t trash talk or competitive banter. It was personal. It involved my family. I didn’t feel safe taking the field knowing this was out there.”

While Judge declined to name the Orioles player publicly, sources within the Yankees organization claim the message came from a current Baltimore star known for on-field intensity—and, occasionally, off-field antics. The content of the message has not been released, but team officials confirmed that it has been turned over to Major League Baseball, which is now launching a formal investigation.

The situation has sparked immediate concern across the league. Several Yankees players voiced support for their captain, with one calling the incident “crossing a line that should never be touched in this game.”

“This isn’t just about baseball,” another teammate added. “When families are dragged into it, that’s dangerous territory. Aaron made the right call not playing.”

The Orioles organization has yet to issue a statement, but according to insiders, internal discussions are already underway to determine the facts and decide on any disciplinary action if needed.

This unprecedented development adds yet another layer of tension to an already fierce AL East rivalry. But for Aaron Judge, the matter goes far beyond competition.

“I’ve played through pain, injuries, slumps—everything you can imagine,” he said. “But this was different. I had to put my family first.”

Major League Baseball is expected to comment on the investigation in the coming days.