Astros manager Joe Espada could not hide his anger after a 9-13 loss to the Cincinnati Reds at home at Daikin Park in Houston, Texas, on the 11th (Korea time).
His anger was not due to the game result; it stemmed from death threats aimed at Lance McCullers Jr. and his children, who struggled as the starter, allowing 7 earned runs (3 hits including 1 home run and 3 walks) in just ⅓ inning.
After the game, Espada told reporters, "I have very unfortunate news to share. McCullers Jr. and his children received threats due to today's game performance. It is extremely regrettable, considering how much he has contributed to our community and team, and it is hard to believe he has to go through this."
After undergoing surgery on his right elbow in June 2023 and going through rehabilitation, he returned to this season, only to receive death threats due to his underwhelming performance.
McCullers Jr., who is in shock from his poor performance and the death threats, noted, "It was a tough night. I understand that fans are passionate, but threats to find and kill my children are incredibly hard to accept as a father."
He also expressed, "I have received death threats in the past, and some actually faced legal consequences. However, it is extremely painful that this time my children are the target."
Espada reacted passionately, stating, "He is a pitcher who returned after two and a half years. We need to understand that he needs time. We are all doing our best. However, to face these threat messages in the office after the game is hard to believe. This has gone too far."
McCullers Jr. added, "Regardless of everything else, I just want to be a good pitcher for this team. I believe I will eventually achieve that."
Meanwhile, manager Espada indicated that McCullers is highly likely to pitch against the Texas Rangers next week as scheduled, stating, "We will continue to support him, and he will keep getting chances."
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