In the realm of professional sports, athletes often appear as heroic figures, celebrated for their incredible achievements. Yet, it’s vital to remember that behind the accolades, they are human beings—capable of feeling joy as well as pain. This truth was cast in stark relief on a choking Saturday night in Major League Baseball.
Lance McCullers Jr., the seasoned pitcher for the Houston Astros, faced an onslaught of vile social media threats following his team’s nail-biting 13–9 defeat against the Cincinnati Reds. In just his second start since battling a series of injuries in 2022, McCullers found himself in a nightmarish situation, surrendering 7 earned runs in a harrowing first inning that saw him exit the game after just one out.
Astros manager Joe Espada addressed the media with palpable frustration, insisting on the need to stand up for his player in light of the ugly attacks aimed at McCullers.
“I want to start by saying something. I just left my office, and it’s really unfortunate that Lance McCullers is receiving threats—targeting him and his kids—because of how he performed,” Espada expressed passionately. “It’s incredibly sad that we have to deal with this. After all Lance has contributed to this city and our team, the fact that it’s come to this is heart-wrenching. I have kids too, and it drives me crazy. It’s a deeply sad situation.”
Awful situation in Houston following the Reds 13-9 win:
Astros manager Joe Espada said there were disturbing threats were made against Lance McCullers Jr.’s family and life after his start tonight.pic.twitter.com/OSVGnQQfRZ— Chatterbox Sports (@CBoxSports) May 11, 2025
Following the game, McCullers bravely stepped before the cameras, sharing the devastating impact of the threats that had been directed at him and his family:
“Yeah… tonight has been really difficult,” he admitted. “I get that people are passionate about the sport and love the Astros, but threatening my kids with violence is something I can’t grapple with.”
“Throughout my career, I’ve faced a multitude of threats, but involving my children… hearing that someone wants to harm them next time we’re out in public? That’s heartbreaking for any dad to take in.”
Lance McCullers Jr. addressing the threats he and his family received. Courtesy SCHN.
Find this person, lock them up, and throw away the key. pic.twitter.com/tZlSEwhq75— Jeremy Branham (@JeremyBranham) May 11, 2025
A cornerstone of the Astros’ legacy since 2015, McCullers has been instrumental in the franchise’s remarkable journey, contributing significantly to their two World Series championships. Despite facing numerous injuries, he has pressed on, amassing a commendable career record of 49–33 with a stellar 3.55 ERA.
Tragically, incidents like this are becoming a frequent occurrence for athletes across all sports. Whether spurred by the advent of legalized sports betting or the anonymity of online platforms, the rise in horrific messages directed at athletes is a chilling trend. It’s disheartening—especially for someone who has dedicated over a decade to serving a team and city with unwavering commitment.
Related: Elly De La Cruz Joins Deion Sanders in Incredible Reds Club
