Police are reportedly investigating threats made against Houston Astros pitcher Lance McCullers and his kids after McCullers struggled in an outing on May 10 against the Cincinnati Reds.

Houston Astros pitcher Lance McCullers Jr. said he and his family received death threats on social media after he allowed seven runs in the first inning of Saturday's game against the Cincinnati Reds. The Houston Police Department is officially investigating the threats, according to the Houston Chronicle.

Social media, gambling, and an angrier society generally may be among the factors, according to Jeff Balke, co-host of the "Bleav in Astros" podcast.