I guess the first lesson here is not to “clean out threads” automatically with a tap or die when less aggressive methods are available, especially since the kind of dirty a connecting rod would have would be very unlikely to require aggressive methods.
I have to say I was initially surprised that those threads were rolled figuring (incorrectly after remembering seeing bent connecting rods) that the rod material would not be ductile enough for them since they are formed by moving metal rather than cutting it. Cast iron is probably too hard for rolled threads and if so, threads for main caps or head studs would be cut. Still, I wouldn’t chase them with a tap unless there was no alternative. I would be even more careful with internal threads in aluminum.
Looking back, I can’t remember if I’ve always followed my advice here but I’ll make sure I do in the future!