Former Dodgers executive named commissioner of Athletes Unlimited Softball League
Kim Ng, who spent more than 30 years in Major League Baseball, has taken the role of commissioner for the Athletes Unlimited Softball League. The league begins its second season this week with MLB financial backing and expanded television coverage.
Los Angeles TimesKim Ng, former Dodgers assistant general manager and the first woman to serve as a Major League Baseball general manager, has been named commissioner of the Athletes Unlimited Softball League. Ng, 57, said the position allows her to work directly with women in the sport after more than three decades in baseball. She previously led the Miami Marlins from 2020 through the 2023 season.
League expansion and media coverage The league will add two teams for its second season and will play in six states: North Carolina, Illinois, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas and Utah. ESPN plans to broadcast 50 games, and ABC will carry the championship. Last season the league conducted a four-team, 10-city tour.
The schedule begins Tuesday, shortly after the Women's College World Series, which averaged a record 1.3 million viewers on ESPN.
MLB investment and player opportunities MLB has invested a reported $10 million in the league and provides promotional support. Ng said the backing helps create a sustainable professional structure. Players and fans have noted the new opportunities.
UCLA player Jordan Woolery said the league reduces pressure on seniors by showing that college is not necessarily the end of a career.
