Lance McCullers Jr. of the Houston Astros faced online death threats following a challenging game, which prompted an emotional conversation with his young daughter. His family, not the only one affected as this issue is growing among MLB players, raised alarms about increasing internet abuse. Fellow players like Liam Hendriks and Christian Yelich also voiced concerns over the hostile online environment, underscoring a disturbing trend where threats and vile comments become a daily occurrence for athletes, linked to heightened scrutiny amid legalized sports betting. This situation has led McCullers to secure his family with 24-hour protection.
Players from around the league agree that online abuse has gotten progressively worse in recent years. Milwaukee's Christian Yelich, a 13-year MLB veteran and the 2018 NL MVP, said receiving online abuse is "a nightly thing" for most players. "I think over the last few years it's definitely increased... It's not just me. It's everybody in here, based on performance."
Soon after Lance McCullers Jr.'s family received online death threats following a tough start by the Houston Astros' pitcher, his 5-year-old daughter, Ava, overheard wife Kara talking on the phone about it... "Daddy like what is threats? Who wants to hurt us? Who wants to hurt me?" McCullers told The Associated Press.
The Astros contacted MLB security and the Houston Police Department following the threats to McCullers. A police spokesperson said Thursday that it remains an ongoing investigation.
Players from around the league agree that online abuse has gotten progressively worse in recent years... It doesn't even really register on your radar anymore. I don't know if that's a good or a bad thing.
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