In a historic move signaling its first major foray into women’s professional sports, Major League Baseball (MLB) has announced a significant investment in the Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL). This partnership, unveiled on May 29, 2025, comes just ahead of the AUSL’s inaugural season, which commenced on June 7. The collaboration aims to bolster the growth and visibility of women’s softball, reflecting MLB’s commitment to supporting and developing the sport at all levels.
The AUSL, founded by Athletes Unlimited—a sports organization established in 2020 by Jon Patricof and Jonathan Soros—introduces a traditional team-based format to professional women’s softball. Departing from Athletes Unlimited’s previous individual-centric model, the league features four teams: the Bandits, Blaze, Talons, and Volts. These teams will compete in a 24-game regular season, touring 12 cities across the United States, including Rosemont, Illinois; Wichita, Kansas; and Tuscaloosa, Alabama, which will host the championship series from July 26 to 28. In 2026, the league plans to transition to a city-based model, establishing permanent teams in specific locations.
MLB’s investment, reported to be in the eight-figure range, secures the league a stake exceeding 20% in the AUSL. This financial backing is the most substantial commitment MLB has made toward softball, underscoring its dedication to fostering the sport’s long-term growth. The partnership encompasses joint sales and marketing efforts, extensive promotional support, and broadcasting agreements to enhance the league’s visibility. Select AUSL games will be aired on MLB Network and MLB.com, providing a broader platform for showcasing the talents of women’s softball athletes.
Commissioner of Baseball Rob Manfred emphasized the significance of this collaboration, stating, “Major League Baseball’s investment in the AUSL represents an opportunity to support softball’s long-term growth and expand our engagement with these outstanding athletes and their fans.” He further highlighted the league’s confidence in the leadership of Kim Ng, the AUSL’s commissioner, and the vision of Athletes Unlimited.
Kim Ng, a trailblazer in baseball executive circles, brings a wealth of experience to her role as AUSL commissioner. She previously made history as the first female general manager in MLB with the Miami Marlins and has held front office positions with the Chicago White Sox, New York Yankees, and Los Angeles Dodgers. Ng’s appointment reflects a commitment to diversity and inclusion within the sport.
The AUSL’s inaugural season features a roster of talented athletes, including Lexi Kilfoyl, the first overall draft pick, who previously played for Alabama and Oklahoma State. Other notable players include Megan Faraimo, a standout pitcher from UCLA, and Odicci Alexander, known for her exceptional performance at James Madison University. These athletes bring a high level of competition and skill to the league, promising an exciting season for fans.
The league’s schedule includes games in various cities, aiming to reach a wide audience and cultivate a national fan base. Venues such as Dell Diamond in Round Rock, Texas; Husky Softball Stadium in Seattle, Washington; and Rhoads Stadium in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, will host games throughout the season. This touring model allows the league to engage with diverse communities and promote the sport across different regions.
Media coverage for the AUSL is extensive, with national broadcasts on ESPN platforms, including ESPN2, ESPNU, and ESPN+, as well as MLB Network and MLB.com. Regional networks such as FanDuel Sports Network, MSG Networks, and NESN will also air games, ensuring widespread accessibility for fans. This comprehensive media strategy aims to elevate the profile of women’s softball and provide greater exposure for its athletes.
The partnership between MLB and the AUSL represents a significant step forward for women’s professional sports. It not only provides financial and promotional support but also signals a broader commitment to gender equity in athletics. By investing in the AUSL, MLB acknowledges the growing popularity and potential of women’s softball, paving the way for future opportunities and advancements within the sport.
As the AUSL embarks on its inaugural season, the collaboration with MLB sets a precedent for other professional sports organizations to support and invest in women’s leagues. This alliance has the potential to inspire a new generation of athletes and fans, fostering a more inclusive and dynamic landscape for professional sports.
