Former Miami Marlins general manager Kim Ng has joined Athletes Unlimited as a senior advisor.
Ng, who made history as MLB’s first female general manager in November 2020, will be responsible for overseeing the development of the Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL), set to launch in spring 2025.
“We are excited to bring Kim back into the softball world and have her lead our team in launching the AUSL,” said CEO Jon Patricof. “Her unparalleled experience at the highest levels of professional sports will be crucial in shaping this new league. Cheri and I have been looking for a leader to spearhead the AUSL, and Kim has been our top choice from the start.”
Ng, who played college softball at the University of Chicago, previously served as assistant GM with the Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Yankees from 1998-2011 and as MLB’s senior vice president of baseball operations under Joe Torre.
After three seasons with the Marlins, Ng left the team in October when she opted out of a mutual option.
The AUSL plans to kick off with four touring teams and a 30-game season (60 total games), with broadcasts on ESPN’s networks. Former players Jessica Mendoza, Cat Osterman, and Natasha Watley are advisors to the league and will work with Ng on its strategic direction.
By 2026, the AUSL aims to have teams based in 6-8 cities, with the sport set to feature in the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028.
“We’re at a pivotal moment,” Ng told The Associated Press. “And maybe it’s not just a moment. Perhaps it’s more of a movement. I wanted to be part of it.”
