MLB Confronts Rising Fan Harassment and Threats

Recent incidents have brought renewed attention to widespread harassment of MLB players and their families, with the issue intensified by the rise of legalized sports betting. After Arizona Diamondbacks' Ketel Marte was emotionally targeted by a fan's taunt about his late mother—resulting in the fan's indefinite ban—Jordan Whitlock, wife of Red Sox pitcher Garrett Whitlock, shared threats and abusive messages her family received, including death threats against their child. Astros pitcher Lance McCullers Jr. and Red Sox reliever Liam Hendriks have reported similar abuse, and McCullers has required personal security for his family. Many players indicate that fan behavior has worsened, with harassment now occurring both online and during games. Jordan Whitlock and others are urging fans to recognize athletes' humanity and to keep families out of such abuse, highlighting the growing mental toll on loved ones. The incidents have sparked broader discussions about the responsibilities of leagues and fans in addressing this toxic culture.