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Sports can bring out strong emotions in fans, but a disturbing incident involving Los Angeles Dodgers reliever Tanner Scott has highlighted how far some individuals are willing to take those emotions. Following the Dodgers 4-3 loss to the Philadelphia Phillies, Scott and his family became the targets of horrific online abuse after the reliever surrendered a go-ahead home run. The incident has sparked outrage throughout the baseball community and reignited conversations about the growing problem of online harassment directed at athletes and their families.
MORE: MLB report card grades for all 30 teams in May 2026
May 29, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Tanner Scott (66) throws against the Philadelphia Phillies during the ninth inning at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
The threats came to light when Scott’s wife, Maddie Scott, shared screenshots on Instagram showing messages she had received following the game. According to the posts, anonymous accounts sent explicit death threats directed not only at Tanner Scott, but also at Maddie, their young son, and even their unborn child.
Some of the messages included threats of violence and disturbing comments wishing harm upon members of the family. Maddie responded publicly by posting a simple but powerful message on her Instagram Story: “When did it stop being a game?” The question resonated with many fans and players who were shocked by the severity of the abuse.
Unfortunately, this is not an isolated incident. Athletes across professional sports have increasingly reported receiving threatening messages following poor performances, losses, or controversial moments in games. In many cases, family members become targets despite having nothing to do with the competition itself.
The rise of social media has made it easier than ever for anonymous individuals to directly contact players and their loved ones. Many around sports believe the growth of legalized sports gambling has further intensified the problem, with frustrated bettors often directing anger toward athletes after losing wagers.
Apr 23, 2026; San Francisco, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers relief pitcher Tanner Scott (66) pitches the ball against the San Francisco Giants during the ninth inning at Oracle Park. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-Imagn Images
Criticism comes with professional sports. Threats against players and their families should never be part of the equation. While fans are free to express frustration over performances on the field, crossing the line into harassment and threats of violence is unacceptable.
The backlash following Scott’s outing serves as another reminder that behind every athlete is a family that should never become a target.
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MORE: MLB report card grades for all 30 teams in May 2026
Tanner Scott’s Family Targeted
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May 29, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Tanner Scott (66) throws against the Philadelphia Phillies during the ninth inning at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
The threats came to light when Scott’s wife, Maddie Scott, shared screenshots on Instagram showing messages she had received following the game. According to the posts, anonymous accounts sent explicit death threats directed not only at Tanner Scott, but also at Maddie, their young son, and even their unborn child.
Some of the messages included threats of violence and disturbing comments wishing harm upon members of the family. Maddie responded publicly by posting a simple but powerful message on her Instagram Story: “When did it stop being a game?” The question resonated with many fans and players who were shocked by the severity of the abuse.
A Growing Problem in Sports
Unfortunately, this is not an isolated incident. Athletes across professional sports have increasingly reported receiving threatening messages following poor performances, losses, or controversial moments in games. In many cases, family members become targets despite having nothing to do with the competition itself.
The rise of social media has made it easier than ever for anonymous individuals to directly contact players and their loved ones. Many around sports believe the growth of legalized sports gambling has further intensified the problem, with frustrated bettors often directing anger toward athletes after losing wagers.
More Than Just a Game
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Apr 23, 2026; San Francisco, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers relief pitcher Tanner Scott (66) pitches the ball against the San Francisco Giants during the ninth inning at Oracle Park. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-Imagn Images
Criticism comes with professional sports. Threats against players and their families should never be part of the equation. While fans are free to express frustration over performances on the field, crossing the line into harassment and threats of violence is unacceptable.
The backlash following Scott’s outing serves as another reminder that behind every athlete is a family that should never become a target.
— Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories on The Big Lead —
Continue reading...
