Lance McCullers, a renowned pitcher for the Houston Astros, was recently subjected to online death threats targeting not only him, but also his two children. In response to these alarming threats, the Astros’ principal owner, Jim Crane, has taken steps to ensure the safety of McCullers’ family by providing around-the-clock security, according to reports by the Associated Press.
These intimidating threats came in the wake of McCullers’ game against the Cincinnati Reds on May 10, where his performance was not as stellar as his usual standard. He let in seven runs in a fraction of an inning, having had the opportunity to face only eight opponents. However, it’s important to highlight that it was just his second game after making a comeback from a flexor tendon surgery he underwent in June 2023.
The severity of the threats necessitated McCullers to consult with the Astros’ administration to explore what steps could be taken to ensure his family’s safety. Along with Crane’s immediate response of recruiting protection, the club also sought assistance from the MLB’s own security personnel and the Houston Police Department.
The local police authorities confirmed to the Associated Press that an investigation into these grave threats is currently underway. While no further details about the process were shared, the fact that the issue is being taken seriously indicates the gravity of the situation.
However, McCullers is not the only Major League Baseball player who has been on the receiving end of such threats recently. About ten days after his unsettling experience, Boston Red Sox reliever Liam Hendriks also disclosed that both he and his wife were victims of online death threats. Like McCullers’ case, this followed Hendriks giving up three runs within two-thirds of an inning to the New York Mets on May 21.
Hendriks’ situation is unique, considering he had just made a major return to the baseball diamond this season after spending much of the last year recovering from Tommy John surgery and extensive treatment for non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. The bulk of his 2023 season was spent away from the sport while he bravely battled his health conditions off the field.
Sadly, the events involving McCullers and Hendriks are not isolated incidents, but rather illustrate a deeply concerning trend in which MLB players report an escalating level of online abuse. This has been seen over recent years with a growing intensity and frequency; it’s not an uncommon occurrence to see players receive such abuse on a daily basis.
It’s widely believed that the surge in such distasteful online behavior is linked to the legalization of sports betting. Disgruntled fans, upset over losing bets, often take their frustrations out on players through harmful online messages, posing significant personal safety and mental health concerns.
Attempting to spotlight the ongoing issues, Hendriks addressed the online abuse in an Instagram story. His public response was due to the perceived lack of action being taken to combat the problem, which he and others believe requires greater awareness and effective solutions.
Baseball teams are making efforts to track down the sources of these online threats. Although the anonymous nature of the Internet presents natural challenges to this pursuit, it remains a priority for the MLB and individual teams to work towards a safer environment.
In response to these events, both the Astros and Red Sox have amplified security measures. This has resulted in an increased police presence in specific sections where players’ families reside during both home and away games. The teams have also beefed up their personnel involved in travel arrangements to ensure that safety remains paramount at all times.
Despite facing the daunting ordeal of his family’s safety being threatened, McCullers showed his true professional profile by delivering his most impressive performance of the season in his latest game. This commitment and focus under such dire circumstances truly testifies to his strength and resolve as a player.
On May 28, against the Athletics, McCullers put forward an exemplary display of his skills on the mound. His season’s best performance saw him strike out twelve opponents within the span of just six innings, reminding everyone of his prowess and dedication to the sport, regardless of external factors.
This incident is a dark reminder of the harsh side of fame. It highlights the pressing need for addressing such issues seriously, as they not only affect the players’ performance, but also pose potential dangers to their families. A stronger, stricter approach towards internet abusers is crucial, in order to keep the spirit of the sport alive.
The MLB, teams and players alike, are focusing on handling this rising issue effectively while ensuring the safety of everyone involved. The hope is that stern actions and an improved awareness among fans can curb this inappropriate behavior and foster a respectful and healthier environment in professional baseball.