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.

Houston Police Department said Monday that detectives within the major offenders division are investigating the threats against McCullers.

Houston Astros right-hander Lance McCullers Jr.'s rough outing on the mound on Saturday night turned uglier when he and his family received death threats over social media. McCullers started the home game against the Cincinnati Reds but got pulled in the first inning after allowing seven runs on three hits and three walks on 36 pitches.