Major League Baseball (MLB) is making a strategic investment in Athletes Unlimited (AU) to support the debut of its new softball league, the Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL), launching next month. This partnership marks MLB’s first comprehensive collaboration with a professional women’s sports league. The investment, details undisclosed, aims to cover operational costs and enhance the league’s visibility through marketing, content creation, events, and digital platforms. MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, recognizing the growing interest in women’s sports and the potential for AU’s established framework.
Starting June 7, the AUSL will feature a traditional team format alongside AU’s unique individual champion format, continuing through its All-Star Cup. Kim Ng, the former general manager of the Miami Marlins and the first female GM in major U.S. pro sports, has taken on the role of commissioner for AUSL, bolstering confidence in the investment due to her extensive experience.
AU co-founder Jon Patricof emphasized that visibility is crucial for the league’s success, stating MLB’s commitment to elevating the AUSL is invaluable. The league aims to provide sustainable career options for female athletes, with prominent figures like Cat Osterman and Jennie Finch serving as advisors. The inaugural season will feature four teams competing across 12 cities.
MLB already engages with initiatives supporting women’s softball and baseball but is not involved with the upcoming Women’s Professional Baseball League set to launch in 2026. Manfred anticipates AUSL’s growth and sustainability, aiming for it to become a self-sufficient league. Patricof believes the partnership, coupled with USA Softball’s involvement, creates a stable foundation for the AUSL, igniting excitement in the sport’s community.
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