MLB Announces Historic Investment in Athletes Unlimited Softball League

Major League Baseball (MLB) has made a historic strategic investment in the Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL), marking its first investment in a women's professional sports league and signaling a major commitment to the growth of women's softball. MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred and AUSL Commissioner Kim Ng emphasized that this partnership aims to build a sustainable professional league, increase visibility for female athletes, and inspire the next generation of softball players. The investment includes financial support exceeding $10 million, marketing and joint sales efforts, and broadcasting select games on MLB Network and MLB.TV. The AUSL's inaugural season will feature four teams competing in a traveling format across multiple cities, culminating in a championship series in July. MLB opted to invest in and partner with AUSL after considering starting its own league, recognizing that collaboration would accelerate growth more effectively. This move reflects MLB's broader commitment to youth engagement and the expanding popularity of women's sports.