MLB Invests in Athletes Unlimited Softball League
Great news for women’s softball. Major League Baseball (MLB) has acquired a stake in the Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL), marking a significant milestone in professional women’s sports.
This strategic partnership arrives at a crucial moment, with women’s sports revenue exceeding one billion dollars annually. MLB’s investment, which exceeds 20%, according to sources, not only provides financial support, but also includes assistance in marketing and content distribution.
It’s a pivotal moment for professional women’s softball, for professional women’s sports.
Jon Patricof, CEO and co-founder of Athletes Unlimited
The AUSL, which also operates women’s basketball and volleyball leagues, is prepared for its inaugural season with four teams and plans to expand in the coming years. In 2026, the league intends to establish city-based teams.
The league has secured a deal with ESPN to broadcast 33 games this summer, and the partnership with MLB will expand coverage through MLB Network and MLB.tv. In addition, AUSL players will participate in the All-Star Game and MLB postseason to increase the visibility of professional women’s softball.We want to create more opportunities for young women. Now they have something to strive for that is going to be present.
Tony Reagins, MLB’s Director of Baseball Development
The AUSL has appointed Kim Ng, former general manager of the Miami Marlins, as league commissioner.
The league anticipates a promising future, combining current talent with sports legends like Jennie Finch, Cat Osterman, and Jessica Mendoza.
This is just beginning. We’ve put all these pieces together, we launched on June 7th, but we’re still in the early days of what we envision for Athletes Unlimited.
Jon Patricof, CEO and Co-founder of Athletes Unlimited
