The person who sentonline death threatstoHouston AstrospitcherLance McCullers, mentioning his two children in the messages, has been identified as an overseas sports bettor, the Houston Police Department revealed on Monday. No charges have been filed in the investigation, but are still being considered, according to an HPD spokesperson. The identity and location of the suspect were not disclosed. However, the man apparently told police that he had gambled on an Astros game, lost money and was intoxicated when he sent the threats to McCullers. Additionally, the suspect expressed remorse for his actions and asked for an apology to be relayed to McCullers and his family, the police spokesperson said. While the investigation is still open as charges are being considered, Houston police appear to have reached a conclusion in the case. McCullers received the threats after allowing seven runs in 1/3 of an inning duringhis May 10 startagainst theCincinnati Reds. He faced eight batters in his second appearance since returning fromflexor tendon surgeryin June 2023. After McCullers received the threats, he alerted Astros management to ask what could be done, and team owner Jim Crane hired 24-hour security for him,the Associated Press reported. Additionally, the team notified MLB security and the HPD. McCullers alsodeleted his account on X. Though the person threatening McCullers and his children has apparently been identified by police, the incident drew attention to the increasing online abuse MLB players (and other professional athletes) are receiving on a regular basis. The escalating amount of the threats is attributed to legalized sports betting and fans lashing out at players for wagers being lost. Boston Red SoxrelieverLiam Hendriksspoke out against such threats afterhe and his wife were threatenedon social media afterhe gave up three runsduring a May 21 game versus theNew York Mets. Consequently, MLB teams have taken measures to identify such fans. Finding them can be difficult, but Houston police were obviously successful in tracking down the person threatening McCullers. Otherwise, the Astros and Red Sox have increased security and police presence in sections where players' families are seated at home and road games, along with traveling parties.
