Major League Baseball is shaking up the world of women’s sports with a bold move that has fans buzzing. Prepare to be stunned by the league’s groundbreaking investment in a new professional softball circuit.
MLB’s Bold Move: Investing in Women’s Softball
In a historic announcement, MLB Commissioner Robert Manfred revealed the league’s first major investment in women’s professional sports – a partnership with the newly formed Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL). This game-changing move signals MLB’s commitment to elevating women’s athletics and tapping into the growing popularity of softball nationwide. With existing infrastructure and a pipeline of talented athletes, softball presents an exciting opportunity for MLB to blaze new trails.
Meet Kim Ng: The Trailblazer Leading the AUSL
At the helm of this groundbreaking venture is Kim Ng, a trailblazer in her own right. After a decade-long tenure at MLB, Ng has been appointed as the inaugural commissioner of the AUSL. Manfred praised her exceptional leadership and managerial acumen, expressing confidence in her ability to steer the league towards success. Ng’s appointment not only breaks barriers but also sets the stage for a new era of empowerment in women’s sports.
The Inaugural Season: Dates, Teams, and Venues
The AUSL’s inaugural season is set to kick off on Saturday, June 7, 2025, with Opening Day games in Rosemont, Illinois, and Wichita, Kansas. The Wichita game will be exclusively broadcast on MLB Network and MLB.TV at 7:30 p.m. ET, giving fans a front-row seat to this historic moment. Four teams – the Bandits, Blaze, Talons, and Volts – will compete in a 24-game season, culminating in a championship series from July 26-28 at the University of Alabama’s Rhoads Stadium. This first season will feature games in 12 cities, with plans for the AUSL to become city-based starting in 2026.
Beyond the Diamond: MLB’s Vision for Women’s Sports
MLB’s investment in the AUSL is more than just a business venture; it’s a testament to the league’s commitment to promoting gender equality and empowering female athletes. By broadcasting select games on its network and streaming service, providing financial support, and assisting with marketing efforts, MLB is ensuring that the AUSL has the resources and exposure it needs to thrive. This partnership sets the stage for further investments and initiatives aimed at elevating women’s sports across various disciplines.
Get Your Tickets Now: The AUSL’s Debut Season
Don’t miss your chance to be a part of history! Single-game tickets for the AUSL’s debut season are now available, giving fans the opportunity to witness the birth of a new era in women’s sports. With games scheduled across 12 cities, there’s no better time to show your support for these talented athletes and the groundbreaking partnership between MLB and the AUSL. Visit theAUSL.com for more information and secure your seats today!
