Lance McCullers Jr. waited over two years to pitch again in front of Houston fans. But after a nightmare return against the Cincinati Reds, where he gave up seven runs while recording just one out and the response was far more terrifying than boos.
McCullers revealed that after the 13–9 loss, he received death threats on social media directed not just at him, but at his children. “I understand people are very passionate and love the Astros and sports,” McCullers said postgame. “But threatening to find my kids and murder them is a little bit tough to deal with.”
Lance McCullers Jr. addressing the threats he and his family received. Courtesy SCHN.
— Jeremy Branham (@JeremyBranham) May 11, 2025
Find this person, lock them up, and throw away the key. pic.twitter.com/tZlSEwhq75
The Astros quickly reported the threats to the Houston Police Department and Major League Baseball security. Manager Joe Espada didn’t mince words and said, “There are people who are threatening his life and the life of his kids because of his performance. It is very unfortunate that we have to deal.”
Lance McCullers’ Return Marred by Online Abuse
McCullers’ start against the Reds marked only his second appearance since the 2022 World Series, following a prolonged recovery from right elbow surgery. In his first outing, he pitched 3.2 scoreless innings against the White Sox, showing promise.
Despite the rough performance against the Reds, the Astros’ organization and fans had been hopeful about his return. The online threats, however, have cast a shadow over his comeback, highlighting the darker side of fan interactions in the digital age.
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McCullers, a two-time World Series champion and 2017 All-Star, has been a key figure for the Astros since his debut in 2015.
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