MLB Reportedly Purchasing Equity Stake in Athletes Unlimited Softball League

MLB is reportedly the latest professional to make an investment into women's sports.

According to ESPN's Jeff Passan, MLB is purchasing an equity stake in the Athletes Unlimited Softball League ahead of its first four-team season.

Passan explained that this decision by MLB "helps establish the AUSL as a viable long-term entity in a sport that has seen multiple professional leagues fold." A source told Passan that MLB's purchasing stake is more than 20 percent, and the league plans to assist the AUSL in marketing and content distribution in addition to its monetary investment.

"It's a watershed moment for pro women's softball, pro women's sports," Athletes Unlimited CEO and co-founder Jon Patricof told Passan. "This is a financial investment but also about a number of things that money can't buy."

Athletes Unlimited, which also runs women's basketball and volleyball leagues, has held softball events in suburban Chicago for the last five years. This summer, the AUSL will include four teams playing in 12 locations. There are plans to expand further in future years, and teams based in cities are expected to be introduced in 2026.

"We think the time is right to get into the space with a credible partner," Tony Reagins, MLB's chief baseball development officer, told Passan. "We want this to be not good but great. We want to create more opportunities for young women. Now they have something to strive for that's going to be around."

Former Miami Marlins general manager Kim Ng, who spent nearly a decade working under MLB commissioner Rob Manfred, was hired as the AUSL's commissioner in April. Softball legends like Jennie Finch, Cat Osterman and ESPN analyst Jessica Mendoza have joined the league as advisers.

The AUSL previously reached a deal with ESPN to broadcast 33 games this summer, and it will now also air games on MLB Network, including its opening day on June 7. AUSL players will also be in attendance at MLB's All-Star Game and postseason games to raise awareness about women's professional softball.