Kim Ng Appointed as Inaugural Commissioner of Athletes Unlimited Softball League

Kim Ng, a trailblazing executive in Major League Baseball (MLB), has been appointed as the inaugural Commissioner of the Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL), set to launch in June 2025. Ng, 56, brings over three decades of experience in baseball operations to her new role, marking a significant milestone in women's professional sports.

Ng's extensive career includes positions with the Chicago White Sox, New York Yankees, and Los Angeles Dodgers. She made history in 2020 as the first female General Manager of a men's team in major U.S. sports when she joined the Miami Marlins. Under her leadership, the Marlins achieved their first full-season postseason berth in 20 years during the 2023 season.

The AUSL, announced in June 2024, aims to provide a traditional team-based professional softball league. The inaugural season will feature four teams—Bandits, Blaze, Talons, and Volts—each playing a 24-game schedule across 10 cities from June 7 to July 23, 2025. The league plans to transition to a city-based format in 2026, expanding to six teams in permanent locations.

Ng had previously served as a senior advisor to the AUSL, overseeing the league's development ahead of its launch. In her new role as Commissioner, she emphasized the importance of leadership, stating, "When I hear the word commissioner, it just means leadership. And I think being at Major League Baseball really helped me to understand the commissioner's office and the services that they provide. It's not just to understand what the clubs need, but you have to lead as well."

Jon Patricof, CEO of Athletes Unlimited, expressed enthusiasm about Ng's appointment: "Kim's groundbreaking accolades are truly unparalleled, and we are thrilled to welcome her back to the softball world and have her lead our team as we launch the AUSL."

The AUSL's formation reflects the rising popularity and support for women's sports, providing more opportunities for female athletes and expanding the sports entertainment landscape. The league has secured ESPN as a founding broadcast partner, with plans to air at least 18 games exclusively on its platforms in 2025.

Ng's appointment as Commissioner of the AUSL represents a significant milestone in sports leadership and the advancement of women's professional sports. Her extensive experience and pioneering achievements position her to effectively guide the league's development and success.