Can you imagine how far things have gone after the Houston Astros lost by 13-9 against the Cincinnati Reds? While fans get heartbroken, some took it way too far! Sometimes, taking hits even at kids! But now, Lance McCullers can sigh in relief… The convict has finally been identified.
On May 10, McCullers received online death threats following his poor second start after a 2.5-year gap post his arm surgery. Giving away seven runs and striking out only one, it was not a good day for the $85 million pitcher. And that made some fans too rigid to cut the guy some slack, despite knowing his physical condition!
And following the reported death threats towards his family, Lance McCullers hired professionals for protection and, of course, filed a complaint to the Houston Police Department. And finally, Astros beat writer Chandler Rome has updated that the felon has been identified. “Inebriated bettor behind death threats to Astros’ Lance McCullers and his family, police say,” read Rome’s post.
According to the Houston Police Department, the man behind the threat is an overseas resident who came to not only watch the game, but also bet on the Astros. Yes, he lost, and the rest is known… Obviously, frustration did not stop him from even threatening a little kid.
Inebriated bettor behind death threats to Astros’ Lance McCullers and his family, police say – https://t.co/G9Q3ZKH0St
— Chandler Rome (@Chandler_Rome) June 2, 2025
While the person’s entire identity is still unknown, reportedly, he has admitted the accusations. As the case stays open, the man in question has also apologized, as per reports.
After receiving the threat, Lance McCullers expressed his disappointment. “I understand people are very passionate and people love the Astros and love sports, but threatening to find my kids and murder them is a little bit tough to deal with.” Nothing to disagree with there! A game is JUST a game – obviously, not more than life…
The police were notified soon. Astros owner Jim Crane hired 24-hour security for McCullers, his wife, Kara, and their two young daughters. The Houston Astros coach, Joe Espada, also shared his discontent with the whole situation. “It’s very unfortunate that we have to deal with this – after all he’s done for this city, for this team.” Yes, expecting results right away from him is a bit of an overstretch!
But looking deep into the entire issue, it has layers. The root cause lies in bets around the sport…
Betting and baseball: The hidden culprit
Some might argue that baseball wouldn’t have become as popular without legalized betting. In fact, people often put their emotions aside and focus more on making a profit.
Remember the “Black Sox” scandal that reported an alleged involvement between a few members of the Chicago White Sox and gamblers in 1919? Then there’s Pete Rose, who was also banned after his alleged involvement in betting as a manager.
And if we look closely, in recent years, threats against players have suddenly increased because of losing bets. Considering the fact that sports betting is legal across 38 states in the US, people often indulge in betting. And when they lose, we recently saw what extent they can move to…
True, there haven’t been any serious consequences as of now, but it’s important for the players to immediately report such incidents. And to be clear, betting isn’t just MLB’s problem, it has taken over NFL, too. In fact, the advent of the internet offers you advice on betting! But at what cost??
Only a continuous effort to discourage betting can help. Don’t you think?
The post Culprit Behind Death Threats to $85M Astros Star’s 5YO Daughter Identified by Police Days After Security Hire appeared first on EssentiallySports.
