Kim Ng Takes Charge of Athletes Unlimited Softball League
Kim Ng is breaking new ground again. The former Miami Marlins executive has been named commissioner of the Athletes Unlimited Softball League, adding another historic role to her impressive resume.
Ng, who made history as MLB’s first woman general manager with the Marlins from 2020-2023, now aims to grow professional softball during a boom time for women’s sports.
“I think we’re in the middle of this transcendence of women’s professional sports, now a part of the mainstream conversation,” Ng told ESPN. “And that’s exciting to me.”
Her connection to softball runs deep.
“I love this sport,” she said. “I grew up playing softball. From middle school on, I played softball, played in college and have, at some points in my career, worked to try and help strengthen the game.”
It’s a family passion too.
“I have four sisters. Three of us played in college, so it’s been a big part of our lives.”
Before joining the Marlins, Ng built an impressive MLB career. She served as assistant general manager with both the New York Yankees and Los Angeles Dodgers from 1998-2011, then worked in the MLB league office.
Running an entire league presents new challenges, but Ng feels prepared.
“When I hear the word commissioner, it just means leadership,” she explained. “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.”
Ng arrives at a crucial moment for the league.
This year, AUSL will launch an ambitious 10-city tour, bringing games and tournaments to different parts of the country. It’s all building toward 2026, when the league plans to establish six permanent city-based teams.
The timing couldn’t be better as interest in women’s professional sports continues to surge nationwide.
