Boston Red Sox reliever Liam Hendriks has spoken out following a wave of disturbing and hostile messages he received from fans after the team’s recent loss to the New York Mets. Hendriks described the threats as “horrible and cruel,” highlighting the emotional toll such reactions take on players beyond the field.
The Red Sox fell to the Mets in a critical game that intensified frustrations among the team’s fanbase. Despite the competitive nature of professional sports, Hendriks stressed that the backlash had crossed a line from passionate support to personal attacks. “Baseball is a tough game, and everyone makes mistakes,” Hendriks said in a statement. “But the kind of threats and abuse I’ve seen lately are unacceptable.”
Hendriks, who joined the Red Sox earlier this season, has been a key part of the bullpen, working in high-pressure situations to close out games. His experience and leadership are highly valued in the clubhouse, and teammates have voiced their support amid the backlash. Several players and coaches have publicly condemned the harassment, emphasizing that athletes are human beings who deserve respect, regardless of the outcome of a game.
The reliever explained that the volume and severity of the messages he received were unexpected. “You’re prepared for criticism because this is a competitive sport, but when it becomes threats toward your safety or your family, it’s devastating,” Hendriks said. He encouraged fans to channel their passion into positive support rather than harmful comments.
Sports psychologists note that the mental health of professional athletes is often overlooked, particularly when social media enables direct communication with fans. Hendriks’ willingness to address the issue openly is seen as a positive step toward raising awareness of the emotional pressures players face.
The Red Sox organization also issued a statement condemning the threats and promising to support Hendriks and all players. “We stand united against any form of abuse or threats,” the team said. “Our players work hard every day to compete at the highest level, and they deserve to be treated with dignity.”
As the season continues, Hendriks remains focused on contributing to the team’s success, hopeful that respect and sportsmanship will prevail among fans moving forward.
