Overview

• MLB’s investment—reported at eight figures—marks its first comprehensive partnership with a women’s professional sports league.
• Funding will underwrite AUSL’s operational costs and growth initiatives in support of four teams preparing for a 24-game season launching June 7.
• MLB will integrate AUSL into its marketing and events, broadcasting select games on MLB Network and MLB.TV and featuring players in All-Star and postseason activities.
• Kim Ng, the league’s commissioner since April, will lead the AUSL alongside advisors including softball legends Jennie Finch, Cat Osterman, Jessica Mendoza and Natasha Watley.
• AUSL plans to expand to six city-based teams in 2026 and build momentum ahead of softball’s return at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.