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MLB Invests in Athletes Unlimited Softball League with Over 20% Equity Stake

The partnership pairs MLB’s resources with AUSL leadership to expand professional opportunities for women’s softball

Athletes Unlimited Softball League players Montana Fouts, Odicci Alexander, Sis Bates, Skylar Wallace, Amanda Lorenz, Aliyah Andrews, Maya Brady and Aleshia Ocasio.
GREENVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA - AUGUST 07:  Team Kilfoil and Team McQuillin starters stand for the national anthem with Little League World Series players during an Athletes Unlimited Pro game at Max R. Joyner Family Stadium on August 07, 2024 in Greenville, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images)
Taylor Edwards takes her at-bat during an Athletes Unlimited Pro game at Max R. Joyner Family Stadium in an August 2024 game. Edwards is among the players who will be taking part in the Athletes Unlimited Softball League's inaugural season this year.
Jul 13, 2024; Arlington, TX, USA; USA softball Olympian Jennie Finch (27) of the American League looks on as she pitches against the National League during the 2024 All Star Celebrity Softball Game at Globe Life Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports/File Photo

Overview

  • MLB purchased a more than 20% equity stake in the Athletes Unlimited Softball League in an investment reported to exceed $10 million
  • The agreement covers joint marketing, operational support and content distribution, including select games on MLB Network and MLB.tv
  • Commissioner Kim Ng will oversee the league’s inaugural barnstorming season of four teams playing 24 games across 12 cities beginning June 7
  • Softball icons Jennie Finch, Cat Osterman, Jessica Mendoza and Natasha Watley will serve as advisors to boost player development and fan engagement
  • MLB’s backing aims to strengthen the sport’s growth pipeline and build a sustainable professional platform for women and girls