AUSL Broadcast Deal Signals a New Era for Softball Visibility

At Extra Inning Softball, we consistently track the moments that move the game forward—and the AUSL broadcast announcement is one of them.

The Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL) announced its full 2026 broadcast schedule on Thursday, outlining the most expansive media distribution plan in professional softball history.

The upcoming season will feature more than 90 games distributed across an expanded portfolio of national and international partners, including ESPN platforms (ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, and ESPN Deportes), CBS Sports Network, and MLB Network. Additional coverage will be available via MLB.TV and MLB.com, with select games streaming free.

In total, AUSL games will be distributed across four platform partners, eight network channels, and reach more than 50 countries, significantly expanding the league’s global footprint.

In October 2025, Extra Inning Softball reported on a multi-year rights agreement between ESPN and Athletes Unlimited that committed the network to carrying 50 AUSL games annually beginning in 2026, including regular-season matchups and the league’s championship series.

That agreement also included a landmark milestone—a featured game on ABC, marking the first time professional softball would air on broadcast television in the United States.

At the time, the deal signaled growing confidence in the sport’s trajectory. The AUSL’s inaugural season delivered measurable results, including significant year-over-year viewership growth, strong attendance figures, and record-setting engagement across digital platforms. View more Pro softball news HERE!

The 2026 broadcast schedule does not replace that agreement—it builds on it. With additional partners, broader distribution, and increased international reach, the AUSL has moved from a single-network commitment to a multi-platform media strategy.

Where the Games Will Be Seen

AUSL games will air across ESPN platforms—including ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, and, for the first time, ESPN Deportes—while also expanding to CBS Sports Network and MLB Network.

Additional games will be available for free through MLB.TV and MLB.com, widening access for fans across North America and internationally.

“This level of visibility is a significant step forward for the sport, our fans, athletes and commercial partners,” said Cheri Kempf, Chief Broadcasting Officer for Athletes Unlimited. “With expanded distribution across multiple national platforms and new partners coming on board, we are continuing to build a consistent and accessible viewing experience for softball fans everywhere.”

Changing the Game

Game One of the AUSL Championship will air on ABC on July 25, marking the first time a professional softball game has been broadcast on network television.

For years, access to professional softball has been limited and inconsistent. That reality shaped how young athletes consumed the sport—they watched highlights, followed scores, or relied on occasional broadcasts. This schedule changes that pattern.

Now, athletes can watch the game at the highest level regularly, study it, and connect to it in real time.

Consistent exposure creates familiarity. Familiarity builds understanding. And understanding accelerates development. More importantly, it reshapes what young players believe is possible.

When games are available across major networks and free streaming platforms, the professional level becomes visible—not theoretical. Athletes can see the pace, the decision-making, and the standard required to compete at the highest level. View more Pro softball news HERE!

That type of access has been common in other sports. It has not existed at this scale in softball—until now.

A More Accessible Pathway

The inclusion of free streaming through MLB platforms is a critical component.

Not every family has access to premium networks, but removing barriers to entry ensures that more players can engage with the game. That aligns directly with where the sport is growing—at the youth and club levels.

For parents, coaches, and athletes, this creates a practical tool. Games are no longer occasional viewing opportunities; they become part of the weekly rhythm of the sport.

Broadcast Talent and Production

The broadcast team will include returning analysts Amanda Scarborough, Danielle Lawrie, Natasha Watley, and Kenzie Fowler, with Eric Collins and Chuckie Kempf handling play-by-play duties.

All games will be produced by Athletes Unlimited’s broadcast team, led by Kempf, in partnership with Game Time Productions.

Where to Watch Opening Day

The Athletes Unlimited Softball League season officially begins June 9, 2026, marking the start of its most widely distributed season to date.

For fans looking to watch the first games, coverage will be split across multiple platforms:

• MLB platforms (MLB.TV, MLB.com, MLB App) — several opening matchups will be available here, including free streaming options for select games
• ESPN networks (ESPN2, ESPNU, etc.) — additional games throughout opening week will be carried here
• MLB Network — select nationally televised matchups

Historically, early-season AUSL games have included streaming availability on MLB platforms, with ESPN coverage ramping up immediately after opening day.

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