Pro softball is spreading its wings, as the Athletes Unlimited Softball League opens its expanded second season with all six teams in action tonight.
Former Tennessee ace and No. 1 draft pick Karlyn Pickens will likely make her pro debut for the Carolina Blaze. She’ll face a rookie-heavy Portland Cascade lineup spanning UCLA’s Megan Grant, Arizona’s Sydney Stewart, Arizona State’s Kenzie Brown, and Florida’s Kenleigh Cahalan.
Game 2 pits the Texas Volts against 2026 newcomer the Oklahoma City Spark, with formerly independent OKC adding No. 3 overall pick Maya Johnson out of Belmont.
The 2025 runner-up Chicago Bandits visit the Utah Talons in the evening’s headliner. Last year, the Talons swept the Bandits to claim the inaugural title.
Utah rookie Taylor Tinsley arrives fresh off UCLA’s deep WCWS run. Meanwhile, first-year pitcher Jocelyn Erickson (Florida) could feature behind the dish for Chicago.
AUSL also made offseason waves, subsequently securing big-name investors and a major media deal.
“We’re big believers in building a sustainable long-term softball league, and I think that that's resonated,” Athletes Unlimited CEO and co-founder Jon Patricof said.
“You’re seeing more and more organizations recognize that this sport is a national phenomenon.”
Where to Watch AUSL Season 2 Opening Day Schedule
Portland squares off against Carolina today at 5 PM ET, live on CBS Sports.
