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Seattle Mariners pitcher, formerly of the Toronto Blue Jays, has bravely spoken out about the harrowing experience of receiving death threats and abusive messages on social media. This comes after a challenging season where his performance has faced scrutiny. The pitcher, who wishes to remain partially anonymous due to the ongoing nature of the threats, shared details of the disturbing messages with reporters, highlighting the dark side of social media and the intense pressure faced by professional athletes.

“It started subtly, just the usual criticism,” the pitcher explained. “But then it escalated. We’re talking direct threats to me and my girlfriend. Things that are completely unacceptable.” He declined to share the specific messages publicly, citing concerns for his and his girlfriend’s safety and the potential for copycat behaviour.

The threats reportedly began after a particularly rough outing on the field, where the pitcher struggled with control and gave up several runs. While acknowledging that criticism is part of the job, he emphasized that death threats cross a line. “I understand people are passionate about baseball, and they have a right to be disappointed,” he stated. “But wishing harm on someone, or their loved ones, is never okay.”

The Mariners organization has expressed strong support for the pitcher and is working with local authorities to investigate the threats. They have also released a statement condemning the abuse and urging fans to report any instances of online harassment. “We are deeply concerned by these reports and stand firmly behind our player,” said a team spokesperson. “We will not tolerate any form of online abuse or threats against our players, staff, or fans.”

This incident has reignited a broader conversation about the responsibility of social media platforms to protect users from online harassment and abuse. Many are calling for stricter regulations and more effective tools to identify and remove abusive content. The pitcher’s decision to speak out is seen by some as a crucial step in raising awareness about the issue and encouraging others to report online threats.

Beyond the immediate threats, the pitcher and his girlfriend have also experienced increased anxiety and fear for their safety. They have taken steps to enhance their personal security, including adjusting their routines and being more cautious about sharing personal information online. “It’s been a really difficult time for us,” he admitted. “We’re just trying to focus on what we can control and support each other.”

The situation highlights a growing concern within professional sports: the blurring lines between passionate fandom and outright abuse. While athletes are accustomed to public scrutiny, the increasing prevalence of online threats and harassment is creating a hostile environment that can impact their mental and emotional well-being. This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of online safety and the need for accountability on social media platforms.

The pitcher is hopeful that by sharing his story, he can help prevent others from experiencing similar trauma. He encourages anyone who is facing online harassment to report it to the appropriate authorities and seek support from friends, family, or mental health professionals. “You don’t have to go through this alone,” he said. “There are people who care and want to help.”