Pro softball players move to unionize, with CBA potentially in place for 2027
Professional softball players are in the process of forming a union, according to The Athletic. The second-year league has seen significant growth, with merchandise sales up 110 percent and broadcast ratings rising 150 percent this season. A collective bargaining agreement could potentially be in place by the 2027 season.
Why it matters
For brands: Rapid growth in ratings and merchandise signals an expanding commercial opportunity in professional softball.
For media: A 150 percent jump in broadcast ratings suggests rising audience demand that could influence future rights negotiations.
For athletes: Pro softball players could gain formal labor protections and negotiated pay structures through a first-ever CBA.
For collectives: A unionized league with a CBA may reshape how player compensation and benefits are structured at the pro level.
Read the full story at The Athletic
Sources
- The Athletic: Pro softball players are unionizing. A CBA could be on the table for the 2027 season