**Houston Police Identify Suspect in Threats Against Astros Pitcher Lance McCullers Jr.**

Houston police have tracked down the person responsible for making online threats towards Astros pitcher Lance McCullers Jr. and his family, coinciding with a difficult game performance last month.

The incident occurred on Saturday, May 10, during McCullers' first game at Daikin Park in over two years. Unfortunately, McCullers was unable to complete the first inning, conceding seven runs and securing only one out before being pulled from the game. In a postgame press conference, Astros Manager Joe Espada revealed that McCullers and his children had received death threats due to his poor performance on the field.

Visibly shaken, McCullers spoke about the threats directed at his family. "I understand people are very passionate and love the Astros and sports, but threatening to find and murder my kids is a little bit tough to deal with," he said.

According to investigators from the Houston Police Department, the suspect lives overseas and had placed a bet on the outcome of the game. The man admitted that he was drunk and frustrated when he posted the threats on social media. He has since apologized to the authorities and requested that they convey his regrets to McCullers and his family.

Espada expressed his frustration and sadness over the incident. "It's very unfortunate that we have to deal with this after all he's done for the city, for this team. The fact that we have to talk about that in my office really drives me nuts. Very sad, very, very sad," he remarked.

While the police are continuing their investigation, they have decided not to disclose the suspect's name or his location.

McCullers underwent surgery on June 13, 2023, to repair his right flexor tendon and to remove a bone spur. He had attempted to resume pitching last June but experienced a setback, leading to an extended period off the mound. He made his highly anticipated return to pitching on Sunday, May 4, in a game against the Chicago White Sox.