The New York Yankees were dealt a jolt of uncertainty Saturday when superstar outfielder Aaron Judge was scratched from the lineup ahead of Game 2 against the Philadelphia Phillies. The move comes just one day after Judge played in Friday’s series opener, a 12-5 loss in the Bronx that deepened the team’s recent skid.

With the Yankees now 14-20 since mid-June and fading in the MLB playoff race, Judge’s late scratch due to an “elbow issue” quickly set off alarm bells. He underwent imaging earlier in the day, though no official diagnosis was made public. The news sparked immediate concern, particularly on social media, where fans and media figures questioned whether a more serious issue—such as Tommy John surgery—could be in play.

Podcast host Jomboy, known formally as Jimmy O'Brien, took to X (formerly known as Twitter) with a passionate video response that captured the anxiety many New York fans are feeling.

“Aaron Judge needs Tommy John… What does that mean? I mean does that mean the trade deadline goes from no rentals just give me a bunch of guys that we will have next year and the year after that. If he has to get Tommy John he is gonna miss next year, like what does, what is going on? Do the Yankees have proportionally more position players getting Tommy John than other teams? Genuine question cause I don’t know….”

The New York Post’s Joel Sherman also posted to X, citing manager Aaron Boone’s vague update on the situation. The lack of specifics only added fuel to the speculation.

“Aaron Boone said Aaron Judge is dealing with ‘an elbow issue’ and went for imaging. Would not give an early feel for the seriousness.”

The potential impact of Judge being out cannot be overstated. Through 103 games this season, the All-Star is slashing an impressive .342 with 37 home runs, 85 RBIs, and 90 runs scored—production that has carried an inconsistent Yankees offense. His pace projects him to flirt with several career highs, including a potential 58-homer season. Any extended absence could shift the franchise's entire deadline approach.

If the elbow issue does require a significant recovery period, it could force general manager Brian Cashman to pivot. Instead of shopping for short-term help, the front office may pursue controllable talent with longer-term value. That type of strategic shift would dominate Yankees rumors leading up to Thursday's deadline.

Elbow injuries have been especially familiar in New York. The Pinstripes have dealt with a string of UCL issues in recent years—including Gleyber Torres, Jasson Dominguez, and Didi Gregorius. Jomboy even wondered aloud whether the Yankees suffer more position-player Tommy John injuries than most teams, a question many fans echoed online.

More New York Yankees News
New York Yankees first baseman Paul Goldschmidt (48) rounds the bases after hitting a solo home run during the seventh inning against the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Field.
Yankees’ Paul Goldschmidt gives positive injury update despite Friday absenceBenedetto Vitale ·
New York Yankees starting pitcher Luis Gil (81) looks a runner back to first base in the first inning against the Houston Astros at Yankee Stadium.
Yankees SP Luis Gil’s touching tribute to daughters for Players WeekendJordan Llanes ·
New York Yankees pitcher Ryan Yarbrough (33) talks with pitching coach Matt Blake (77) and teammates as they take on the Boston Red Sox in the first inning at Fenway Park. Yankees face tough bullpen choices as Ryan Yarbrough and Fernando Cruz near return, with Matt Blake preparing for hard roster decisions down the stretch.
Yankees facing ‘hard decisions’ amid bullpen woesYasmin Edañol ·
New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone (17) speaks to reporters before the game against the Miami Marlins at loanDepot Park. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
1 prospect Yankees must promote as rosters expand for 2025 stretch runColin Loughran ·
New York Yankees relief pitcher Fernando Cruz (63) pitches against the New York Mets during the ninth inning at Yankee Stadium.
Yankees pitchers’ comeback underway ahead of Cardinals seriesZachary Draves ·
New York Yankees left fielder Cody Bellinger (35) rounds the bases after hitting a home run in a game against the Minnesota Twins at Yankee Stadium, Aug 13, 2025, Bronx, New York, USA. MLB Network’s Sean Casey and Mark DeRosa break down the secrets behind Yankees outfielder Cody Bellinger’s stellar season.
MLB Network breaks down the secrets to Yankees outfielder Cody Bellinger’s successYasmin Edañol ·