Lance McCullers Jr. sounds more than ready to move on.
The Houston Astros pitcher received death threats from a disgruntled fan following McCullers’ poor outing last month against the Cincinnati Reds. The 31-year-old right-hander gave up seven earned runs on three hits, three walks, and a HBP in the first inning. McCullers was pulled out of the game before even getting his second out.
McCullers revealed that the fan not only attacked him, but also threatened to “murder” his children.
On Monday, Houston police shared that the threats were issued by an “overseas gambler” who had lost money betting on the Astros. The fan was said to be “frustrated and inebriated” when he messaged McCullers on social media.
McCullers spoke to reporters on Tuesday after his start against the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park in Pittsburgh, Pa.
“Resolution is nice. Him not being close to Houston, Texas, is nice,” McCullers said, via The Athletic’s Chandler Rome.
“Thanks to all the fans. Everyone has been super supportive. I hope to just put it behind us and hopefully no one else has to deal with that kind of thing. It’s just kind of behind us now. But thanks to everyone that was on it and made our family feel safe.”
The peace of mind seemed to help McCullers on the mound. He threw six scoreless innings against the Pirates, going pitch-for-pitch against Cy Young candidate Paul Skenes.
The Astros won the contest 3-0.
