(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Begins Second Season with Expanded Six-Team Format
The Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL) has launched its second season on June 9, 2026, marking a major step forward in the growth of professional softball in the United States.
After a successful debut season in 2025, the league has expanded from four to six teams and shifted to a city-based structure with permanent home markets.
Expansion and New Teams
The original franchises — Carolina Blaze, Chicago Bandits, Texas Volts, and Utah Talons — are now joined by two expansion teams: Portland Cascade and Oklahoma City Spark.
This expansion reflects the league’s continued efforts to strengthen its presence and build long-term fan bases across North America.
Move to City-Based Model
Unlike its first season, which operated on a touring format, AUSL teams are now based in fixed home cities. Officials say this change will help teams develop stronger community connections and improve fan engagement throughout the year.
2026 Season Format
The 2026 AUSL season will feature a 25-game regular schedule running from June 9 to July 20. Following the regular season, the league will introduce an expanded postseason structure.
The playoffs will include a play-in game between the second- and third-ranked teams, followed by a best-of-three championship series to determine the season winner.
Championship Venue
The postseason play-in game and championship series will be held at Davis Diamond, located at Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas. The venue is considered one of the top softball facilities in the United States.
League officials say the new structure is designed to enhance competition while supporting the long-term development of professional softball.
